"Staff are a credit to the NHS"

Department (16th June 2025)

I would love to share some positive feedback regarding the staff members in the Minor Injuries Department during our visit today, 16th June 2025. This feedback is not only based on today’s experience with my son but also on previous visits — showing that the care and professionalism we received today is consistent and not a one-off. The team is truly a credit to both the department and the NHS.

Firstly, I’d like to mention the consultant/doctor who saw my son, for suspected broken fingers (I unfortunately didn’t catch his name, but it should be on record). My son is believed to be on the autism spectrum, and from the moment we entered the room, this doctor built an excellent rapport with him. He immediately noticed my sons interest in the skeleton model in the corner and engaged him by talking about the bones. While gathering details about the incident, he skillfully multitasked by sharing fascinating health facts with my son — such as why it’s important to drink plenty of water and how the colour of your urine can indicate hydration levels. My son absolutely soaked up these facts and has been proudly repeating them to others ever since.

The way this doctor included and treated my son as a person, rather than only addressing us as parents, made my son feel extremely comfortable — an approach that will stay with him for a long time.

Next, when we were sent for an X-ray, the lady at the desk was someone I’ve personally seen before. As always, she was so welcoming, patient, and kind. She took the time to engage in a full conversation with my son, her warmth and friendly manner helping to ease any discomfort or worry he had. She also managed his expectations wonderfully, explaining clearly where he was in the queue and who he’d be seeing next.

I’ve met the staff member before in X-ray, both for myself and my daughter — and now my son. The very first time I encountered him, he was training a student, and I remember thinking what a rare and wonderful mentor he was — so gentle, patient, and genuinely eager for the student to gain hands-on experience in the right way. Sadly, I’ve witnessed some students being mentored poorly elsewhere, but this person was truly a breath of fresh air. I even told the student that day how lucky she was to be learning from him.

Seeing him again today confirmed that this wasn’t a one-off — this is simply who he is. He was equally caring and professional with both my children and maintained the same high standard of care. He is a true asset to the hospital.

Unfortunately, we’ve had mixed experiences accessing NHS services in the past, and sadly some of those left a lasting negative impact. However, visits like today remind us of the incredible people working in the NHS who make a real difference.

I sincerely hope this feedback is passed on to their managers, as each of these staff members deserves to be recognised for their outstanding care.