Children at Salford Royal Hospital’s Critical Care Unit have received donated teddies as part of a campaign to alleviate fears and worry in a stressful environment.
The bears are given to the hospital by members of the public through a newly launched programme called the ‘Ted in a Bed scheme.’
The initiative, which helps unwell children feel supported and comforted in hospital, has made a visible difference in easing the worries of young patients receiving treatment.
Hospital staff, realising that this environment may be daunting for the children of patients, decided to create the scheme to comfort children who may spend a lot of time with their families in the unit.
Salford’s critical care unit specialises in advanced care for patients with life-threatening or critical illnesses who are in need of close support and monitoring. The unit is one of the largest critical care units in the UK.
Hospital staff, realising that this environment may be daunting for the children of patients, decided to create the scheme to comfort children who may spend a lot of time with their families in the unit.
Salford’s critical care unit specialises in advanced care for patients with life-threatening or critical illnesses who are in need of close support and monitoring. The unit is one of the largest critical care units in the UK.
The initiative is led by Caroline Sigley, critical care sister, Steph Martin, critical care nurse, and Lisa Jones, children’s bereavement nurse. Together, they’re working to create a more compassionate and supportive experience for families.
“It’s important for us to give parents the tools to talk openly with their children and reduce the anxiety that can come with hospital visits,” Sigeley explained.
“While it’s natural to want to shield children, doing so can sometimes increase their fear. Through this project, we’re helping families feel more connected and supported during incredibly challenging times.”
Salfordian Lynn Mcnally made and donated some of the bears to offer support to the children in the critical care unit.
She said: “I loved making the teddies and hearts and reading the comments that people get comfort from them makes me proud to have been part of it. I have also made premature baby hats in the past. I like to give to our local community. I am always willing to do more if needed.”
To further support families, the team has created a gentle, child-friendly video that introduces children to the critical care setting before they arrive. It explains what they might see and hear, and introduces the friendly faces they’ll meet, making the experience less daunting and more reassuring.
The educational video aims to familiarise people with the ward, using a giant teddy bear to symbolise a patient in the unit and explain what all of the machines do. It was also used to introduce the staff by name as well as their roles.
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