Progress so far

Children's Emergency Unit (CEU)

Opened: November 2024

Our CEU includes 13 cubicles, two high acuity bays and one resuscitation bay, a baby and breastfeeding room, a sensory play room for children with neurodiversity's and a wellbeing room for younger patients arriving in mental health crisis.

Emergency Department

Opened: September 2024

Our ED is helping ensure our unplanned healthcare provision is fit for the increasing demand and growing population of Swindon. The department has an increase in the number of cubicles, a secluded room for patients in a mental health crisis, and two comfortable rooms for relatives, set away from the bustle of the main department.

Urgent Treatment Centre (UTC)

Opened: July 2022

Our UTC was designed with input from patients and staff and is inclusive and accessible for all, with the Trust’s first ever changing places facility for children and adults with disabilities, block colour pallets for patients with dementia, lowered reception desk access for wheelchair users and a sky ceiling to bring the outside, in.

Making our services accessible

We are committed to creating a safe space for all patients, recognising that some patients, including those with a genetic condition, Autism or a learning disability, might find the hospital environment more distressing than others.

We have introduced a number of initiatives and facilities designed to enhance the experience for those with additional or complex needs, including:

• Changing Places facility: a large changing room and toilet for children and adults, including a hoist and shower
• Little Bags of Calm: small resource bags contain an eye mask, ear plugs and fidget sensory tools, as well as a mindfulness colouring book and crayons
• Sensory room: a safe space in the Children's Emergency Unit with padded walls and seating, visual sensory toys and equipment and calming tones which depict nature
• Wellbeing spaces: quiet, non-clinical rooms for patients presenting in mental health crisis
• Manikin with Down's Syndrome: giving staff the chance to practice their clinical training and learn about specific issues often associated with Trisomy 21
• Sky ceilings: faux windows that show blue sky, trees and sunshine - to brighten the department and reduce clinical anxiety, whilst also being dimmable to adapt to sensory needs