"Upmost care and compassion"

I had to take my autistic brother to A&E over the weekend as he had become quite sick and was in a lot of pain. The level of service we received from all the staff there was immense, showed the NHS at it's greatest and I cannot thank everyone enough.

As well as being autistic my brother, who is almost 50, also has ADHD and high levels of anxiety. He is unable to give clear responses that would help a diagnosis and is very fearful of anything that might cause him pain. Needles are a particular issue. So clearly a challenge when it comes to treating him.

From the moment we arrived we were dealt with in a patient and understanding way - from the receptionist who sorted us a private, quiet space to sit; to the triage nurse who quickly moved us into a cubicle in majors; and the nurses and doctors who worked on diagnosing and treating him. Most importantly we were listened to and dealt with in an individual way, which might sound obvious but is so often overlooked. They recognised and adapted to the fact standard procedures might not work for my brother. Without that it would have been a significantly more difficult experience.

The doctors explored every avenue of treating my brother's needs in as compassionate way as possible and although he eventually had to be restrained to take bloods it was clear by then that was the only way of achieving it. And the aftercare from what was a pretty traumatic moment was welcome and impressive.

Thankfully we now have a diagnosis for my brother and he is on the mend.

I am hugely appreciative of how all the staff worked with and for my brother. Thank you once again.