From Spiderman to a friendly unicorn – young patients on Walsall Manor Hospital’s Children’s Ward and Paediatric Assessment Unit are sure of a warm welcome thanks to child-friendly visors that have been developed.

Assistant Play Specialist Jo Plank has been busy customising the PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) which needs to be worn in those clinical areas during the COVID-19 pandemic following a challenge laid down by colleagues from South Tees Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust.

Caroline Whyte, Divisional Director of Nursing for Children, Young People and Neonates, said: “When the challenge was made, from a trust that I used to work at, Walsall obviously set about rising to it and we’re thrilled with the results.

“Jo has done a fantastic job and the children think it’s great. They sometimes make requests for a particular super hero and we try and oblige!

“We are very aware that PPE can look intimidating and we are often caring for children who are anxious or frightened so this fun approach really helps us to create as welcoming an environment as possible whilst adhering to PHE guidance to keep our patients, staff and their families safe.”