For people with autism or a learning disability, a trip to A&E can be a really tough experience. The noise, the bright lights, the waiting – it can quickly become too much. At East Surrey Hospital, staff want to make things better. That’s why the Emergency Department team, are introducing special care bags to give to patients who might find the environment difficult to cope with.
Wait times are often long and due to space restrictions the department aren't able to offer quiet rooms. To address this, your donations have funded care bags for patients. These bags have been thoughtfully put together with input from people who live with autism or learning disabilities—so everything inside is genuinely helpful. They’re filled with simple, calming items designed to make a hospital visit less overwhelming, and patients can take them home after. Each bag includes an eye mask and headphones to help with sensory needs, patient information in an easy-to-read format, and a mix of items to keep hands and minds busy. There's also a tag inside the bag that acts as a referral to the hospital’s acute liaison team, helping staff offer the right support more quickly.
This great idea is only possible because of support from people like you. Your donations to East Surrey Hospital Charity have helped fund these care bags—something practical that can make a real difference to someone going through a tough time in hospital.
Thank you!
