"An excellent first experience for my toddler"

Hi, Just wanted to compliment the staff in the Childrens Outpatients department.

I attended on a Monday morning with my 2 year old.

Although she was only having blood tests, I was incredibly nervous as my daughter had wrestled as if her life depended on it when our GP tried to use her stethoscope!

I did not know how I would be able to keep her still for a blood test, and didn't want her to have a bad experience or start a fear of needles/ hospitals/ doctors etc.

I needn't have worried.

The whole department had a friendly atmosphere, with thoughtful decorations and engaging toys. The nursing staff were excellent, and distracted my toddler with bubbles and books so that the procedure was over by the time she had realised something was happening.

When we got home, she proudly showed-off her plaster and 'well done' sticker to our dog!

Thank you Barnsley Hospital. :-)