Enter and view: Kings College NHS Foundation Trust- Paediatric Ward

Healthwatch Lambeth worked with 15 young people to assess how youth-friendly services were within King’s College Hospital’s emergency and paediatric departments. Young interviewers spoke with patients, relatives and staff and found that overall care was highly regarded. Patients and families described staff as approachable, respectful and easy to talk to, while staff emphasised the importance of involving young people in decisions about their care. However, concerns were raised about occasional staff shortages during busy periods, long waits for some tests and inconsistent communication about what would happen next during treatment. 

The hospital environment was generally viewed as safe, welcoming and well maintained, with good support available for children with additional needs and access to interpreters when required. However, participants felt that facilities were focused heavily on younger children and did not adequately meet the needs of teenagers. Waiting areas offered toys and activities for young children but little for older children and young people, who were often left bored. Suggestions included providing computers, board games, sofas, social spaces and age-appropriate activities. 

Young people also highlighted the need for better communication and engagement. Patients and relatives wanted clearer explanations about treatment plans, tests, expected waiting times and which staff members they would see. Staff agreed that young people should have greater opportunities to share their views on services and help shape improvements to the environment and care delivery. Participants also suggested information materials should better reflect the needs of diverse groups, including young people experiencing mental health difficulties and LGBT young people.

A further concern was the experience of older teenagers on adult wards. Participants felt that 16 to 19 year olds could find adult environments intimidating and would benefit from dedicated spaces or wards where they could socialise with people of a similar age. Healthwatch concluded that while the quality of care was strong, improvements were needed in communication, participation and age-appropriate facilities to ensure services are genuinely youth-friendly for teenagers as well as younger children.