Feb 7, 2025, Wirral Globe: Wirral hospital's initiatives to support autistic patients
NW England
Wirral University Teaching Hospital (WUTH) shared its ongoing commitment to the autistic community in light of Autism Sunday on February 9.
Autism Sunday is held annually on the second Sunday of February to raise awareness about autism, a neurodevelopmental difference that affects how individuals interact socially and with their surroundings.
The hospital has acknowledged the need for adjustments to ensure autistic patients receive the same quality of care as others. . . .
These workshops, known as 'patient promise groups,' aim to better understand and accommodate the needs of autistic individuals.
Helen Newell, safeguarding and complex care lead, said: "If anyone with additional needs comes into hospital, we urge them to let staff know so that we can make reasonable adjustments to ensure their needs are met. . . .
As part of a national campaign, WUTH has made it mandatory for all its staff to complete the Oliver McGowan Mandatory Training on Learning Disability and Autism.
The training is named after an autistic teenager whose death highlighted the need for better training for health and social care staff.
Another initiative is the sensory care bag, launched in 2024, for patients in the emergency department and admission units. . . .
Sam Westwell, chief nurse and equality, diversity and inclusion patient lead, said: "As a trust we are committed to improving the experiences of autistic patients.
"We recognise that this is an ongoing process of listening to their views, and we will continue to seek feedback from the autistic community to inform our work around any future patient improvements."
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