Children have been helping to shape the future of asthma services across south east Essex while having fun at the MegaCentre in Rayleigh.
Young patients under the care of the children’s community asthma service run by Essex Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust (EPUT) were invited to share their experiences as part of a unique co-production event designed to put patient voice at the centre of care.
The fun and informal setting encouraged children to share their feedback on the care they receive while enjoying themselves with soft play and laser tag.
Parents and carers also had the chance to speak directly with clinical staff, ask questions and contribute their views on how the service helps children manage their asthma conditions.
The event is just one example of EPUT’s commitment to co-production, ensuring the lived experiences of patients, their families and carers shape future delivery of the Trust’s services.
The event was fully funded by EPUT’s Charitable Fund, removing barriers to participation and creating an inclusive space for families. Every child who attended also received a £15 Amazon voucher as a thank you.
Melanie Moylan, Business Support Co-ordinator for South East Essex Integrated Children’s Community Nursing Service, said: “A huge thank you to each of the families that spent the day with us. We hope the children all had a great time. The feedback for the day was overwhelmingly positive and parents praised the relaxed approach, saying it made it easier for children to express their thoughts.
“Insights gathered throughout the day will help shape improvements within the service to ensure we continue to meet the needs of the children and families we support. We’re committed to building on the success of these events and continuing to work collaboratively with children and families to improve asthma care across our community.”
The day featured a soft-play party for children aged six to 10 and an action-packed laser tag party for children aged 10 to 14. Both sessions were funded by EPUT’s Charity which raises money to help the Trust provide the best care. Donations from members of the public, staff, patients and their loved ones help finance extras that make the care patients receive that bit more special.
To find out more about the charity and how to make a donation, visit www.eput.nhs.uk/get-involved/fundraising/