"More welcoming and not as scary" - new-look Children's Emergency Department given glowing endorsement

Two long-term paediatric patients have given our new-look Children’s Emergency Department (CED) their seal of approval.

Alex Copson and Masooma Shah were invited to a ribbon-cutting ceremony to mark the completion of our £15 million Emergency Department revamp.

As well as almost doubling the number of cubicles, opening a second triage room and extending the waiting area, artwork on walls throughout CED has helped to create a more child-friendly environment.

“As much as you don’t want to be in A&E, it feels inviting and not as scary,” said 16-year-old Alex, who was born with juvenile arthritis, a group of conditions that affect children's joints and cause pain, swelling and stiffness.

“I’ve been coming for so many years and it’s great seeing the change to a much better environment for children. It’s a pleasure to come and be a part of the official opening.”

Masooma Shah was born with stage four brittle bones disease and has been a lifetime patient at UHCW.

The 22-year-old, studying for her Masters in Media Communications at Coventry University, added: “Everything looks a lot more cheerful and that’s really important.

“For young kids especially, they’re in pain and scared and they need an atmosphere that’s welcoming.

“I think they’ve done a really good job in doing that with the artwork on the walls and it was an honour to be invited to the opening.”