Children have shared fresh insights into how Walsall Manor Hospital can create a more reassuring and enjoyable environment for younger patients.

Little Voices, an award-winning project by the Patient Relations and Experience Team at Walsall Healthcare NHS Trust, invites pupils from Pelsall Village School into the hospital to share their ideas and experiences, helping staff understand how clinical areas can feel safer, calmer, and more welcoming for children.

During their recent visit, the children toured several departments, including the Paediatric Emergency Department waiting area, Children’s Ward, Children’s Emergency Department, and the Neonatal Unit.

They also tasted the food served to young patients and looked at the hospital environment.

Wyatt, aged nine, said: “I really enjoyed coming to the hospital and looking at all the different areas. I really enjoyed creating the chocolate fajita pancakes as well.

“Out of everything that we come up with on the visit, I would change the children’s play areas to make them more fun when children are in the hospital.”

Throughout the day, pupils were encouraged to talk openly about what they liked, what could be improved, and what might help make a hospital stay less worrying for children and young people.

Their suggestions included making waiting areas more colourful and comfortable, improving entertainment and activities, and offering feedback on meals and facilities.

At the end of the session, the group presented its thoughts directly to senior staff, giving valuable insight into their ideas.

Garry Perry, Associate Director for Patient Voice, said: “It’s incredibly important that we listen to children and young people about their experiences.

“The Little Voices programme gives them the chance to share honest feedback and helps us make meaningful improvements to the care we provide.

“Some of the smallest changes can make a big difference when a child is feeling unwell or anxious, and their ideas really help us see our services through their eyes.”

More Little Voices visits are planned throughout the year, giving the children the opportunity to return and see some of their suggested changes put into action.