Children’s Outpatients transformation at Dewsbury and District Hospital | News

The Children’s Outpatients Department at Dewsbury and District Hospital has been transformed into a bright, welcoming and engaging space for young patients and their families, thanks to the incredible support from MY Hospitals Charity and its supporters.

The department supports thousands of children every year, providing both short-term and long-term care, with more than 5,500 appointments already taking place this year alone. The completed refurbishment marks a major milestone in enhancing the experience of children attending outpatient appointments and providing improved environments and activities that the NHS cannot fund alone.

For nearly 150 years, Dewsbury and District Hospital has been at the heart of its community, caring for generations of families, however, hospital visits can still be stressful and worrying for children and families. The refurbished department is now much more than just a waiting area - it is a calming, interactive space where children can relax, play and feel more at ease during challenging times.

The transformation includes a forest-themed indoor play and sensory area, featuring wall-mounted games and activities, an interactive play van to inspire imagination, vibrant wall graphics, and soft play furniture designed especially for young patients.

The project has created a space that truly reflects the incredible care already provided by the Children’s Outpatients team, supporting both patients and staff daily.

Hakan, aged five, from Dewsbury, attended Children’s Outpatients for a blood test. His mother Uzma said: 

“The play area is amazing. My son was so scared about his blood test, but as soon as he entered the play area, he forgot about it and was so happy.”

Lucy Knights, Lead Nurse within the Children’s Outpatients Department, has welcomed the changes:

“This transformation has made a real difference to the department. The environment is now much more inviting and child-friendly, helping children feel calmer and more comfortable during their visit. It also supports staff to deliver the best possible care in a space that reflects the warmth and compassion of the team.”

Keith Ramsay, Chair of MY Hospitals Charity and Mid Yorkshire Teaching NHS Trust, said:

“This project shows what can be achieved when a community comes together to support its local NHS services. Thanks to the generosity of our supporters, children visiting Dewsbury and District Hospital now have a space that is colourful and fun, with their needs at heart. 

“We are incredibly proud to have played a part in creating an environment that will make hospital visits a more positive experience for children and their families for many years to come.”

MY Hospitals Charity would like to thank everyone who donated, fundraised and supported the project. For more information about MY Hospitals Charity and other projects supporting local hospitals, visit www.myhospitalscharity.org or contact the team at midyorks.myhospitalscharity@nhs.net or 01924 546017.