Hospital Charity opens sensory unit at Derby's Children’s Emergency Department, thanks to donations and fundraising
Added by Love Business East Midlands | 8 July 2026
Derby & Burton Hospitals Charity has funded a brand-new sensory bay in the Children’s Emergency Department at Royal Derby Hospital.
The space, which creates a peaceful environment for young patients and their families to access during their visit, was only made possible thanks to generous donations from supporters and fundraising by staff.
Designed to reduce anxiety and sensory overload, the bay is especially beneficial for children who may find the busy hospital environment overwhelming. Soft, adaptable lighting sits at the heart of the space, including a soothing light tunnel with music, projected stars across the ceiling and floor, and interchangeable rotating themed slides that can be tailored to each child’s needs. Sensory toys and visual cue cards are also on hand to support with communication.
The impact of the room is already clear. By providing a quiet place, it helps patients feel calmer and more comfortable, making it easier for clinicians to deliver care.
Although designed with neurodiverse children in mind, the benefits extend to all young patients. Senior Sister Jenna explained,
“The sensory room can benefit all our patients. It provides a distraction, but also helps to reground and calm them, enabling us to make a proper assessment."
She added that the transformation in some patients has been remarkable,
“We’ve had children come in feeling overwhelmed, but once we bring them into the sensory room and adjust it to suit their needs, they become much more settled and calmer."
This welcoming space has been made possible entirely through donations and fundraising. Support came from hospital staff who fundraised, local businesses and the wider community.
One local business, Stenson Lock Coffee Shop, chose to support the cause by donating their tips for a 12-month period. Colleagues across the trust also played a huge part. Finance colleague, Julie Waldrum, was inspired to get involved after learning about the plans at a staff meeting.
With personal experience of how daunting hospital visits can be, Julie immediately saw the value of the project, saying,
“I could see the benefit of a sensory room right away, with my grandson being autistic and non-verbal” she said. “The room is beautiful and it’s absolutely perfect for anyone that needs a moment of calm."
Julie went on to organise fundraising events, including a dog show and a football match to help bring the sensory room to life.
The project forms part of wider work to improve inclusion and accessibility within Children’s Emergency Care. Much of this was led by Dr Andrew Seggie, who championed the vision as part of efforts towards a National Autistic Society inclusion award. Although Andrew has since moved on to another hospital, he returned to see the completed room.
“What I’m most proud of is that this work outlasted my time here. It’s embedded in the team and still growing - that’s what good quality improvement looks like", said Andrew.
Staff are clear that none of this would have been possible without the generosity of supporters.
Jill Matthews, Chief Officer of Derby & Burton Hospitals Charity said,
“I’d like to extend my thanks to everybody who donated to allow us to install the sensory room. Our charity exists to enhance the patient experience and it’s clear from the feedback received so far that this new addition has been so very gratefully received and it will continue to make a difference to young patients and their families for years to come."
