Wirral University Teaching Hospital's Sensory Room Inspires New Facilities at Liverpool Hospitals

An innovative sensory room concept introduced at Arrowe Park Hospital has inspired the creation of similar facilities in the region.

 

New sensory rooms, named "Archie’s Place," were officially opened in August 2024 at the Royal Liverpool University Hospital, marking a significant step in supporting adult patients with autism and additional needs undergoing planned surgery.

 

The original sensory room at Wirral University Teaching Hospital’s Arrowe Park Hospital site, is known as "Archie’s Room" and was opened in March 2023 by autism campaigner, Christine McGuinness. The facility was the first of its kind in the North West, specifically designed to create a calming environment for adults with autism and additional needs who require surgery. The room was the vision of Ward Sister Becky Brumpton, from the Surgical Elective Admissions Lounge (SEAL), whose own son, Archie, was the inspiration behind the project.

 

Speaking about the project, Becky said: “It’s fantastic to see how our work at Arrowe Park has inspired others to follow suit. We have seen first-hand the difference our sensory room has made to patients, and I’m thrilled that the Royal has embraced the idea. My goal is to ensure that no one with additional needs fears hospital admissions and that they know their specific requirements will be met.”

 

The new rooms at the Royal Liverpool University Hospital, which feature similar facilities such as colour-changing wall panels, fibre optic lights, and interactive sound panels, aim to reduce anxiety and create a welcoming space for patients who may find hospital environments challenging.

 

Janelle Holmes, Chief Executive Wirral University Teaching Hospital, said: “It’s incredibly rewarding to see the impact that the sensory room has had not only on our own patients but also in inspiring others to create similar spaces. This project is a great example of how our staff, such as Becky, are encouraged and empowered to make changes to meet the needs of patients, especially those with autism and additional needs.”

 

Sam Westwell, Chief Nurse at WUTH, added: “We are delighted to see the concept we pioneered at Arrowe Park extend to other hospitals. The positive feedback from our patients has been amazing, and we are proud that this innovation is helping to improve care for patients with autism and additional needs across the region.”

PHOTO CAPTION: Becky Brumpton's children (Ava and Archie Hardman) playing in Archie's Place with Dad, Gregory Hardman. 

PHOTO CAPTION: Family photo outside the entrance of Archie's Place. Pictured is Becky Brumpton, Gregory Hardman, Ava Hardman and Archie Hardman.