Canterbury Children’s Emergency Department introduces new artwork thanks to generous support.
 

The children’s wing of the Canterbury Hospital Emergency Department has been transformed. 

New, bright wall decals placed around the ward have made the clinical space more inviting and friendly for young people who need treatment. 

Canterbury Emergency Department treats approximately 12,000 paediatric patients from the surrounding community each year. The artwork will make a significant difference to the hospital experience. 

“The artwork has brightened the space for children and created a more interactive environment,” said Michael Morris, Canterbury Hospital General Manager. 

“Thank you for the generous support from our local community organisations.” 

Funding for the colourful creatures came from a $30,000 combined ClubGrants partnership from the Canterbury League Club and Campsie RSL Club. 

The artwork features a range of animals, from Australian natives to sea creatures and well-known jungle friends.  

Additional interactive components also invite children to explore with their minds, while decals on the ceiling above the beds in treatment spaces will help children relax during more significant treatments. 
 

The decals in the children’s wing come after a complete upgrade to the Emergency Department in December 2020. 

Sue Baker, Community Participation and Volunteer Manager, said the designs were made specifically for the ward with help from everyone who passed through the doors. 

“Design concepts were developed in consultation with hospital staff and the graphic designer,” she said. 

“Children who visited the Emergency Department, their parents and siblings were given stickers to place on their favourite images and these images were included in the final design.” 

Community participation is a key driver in the continual improvement of patient care in Sydney Local Health District. 
 

Community members, through the Consumer and Community Networks, are passionate about being involved in education activities, supporting the delivery and upgrade of facilities and helping to provide feedback on services. 

“We have a commitment to cross-cultural patient, carer and family-centred care, and always looking for new ways to build our partnerships with patients and their families,” said Sue.  

People with a passion for improving health care and have experience as a patient or family member are welcome to discuss opportunities for participation by emailing the District Community Participation team: SLHD-Consumer@health.nsw.gov.au