28th November 2024

Teenager’s bright idea delivers sustainable benefits for paediatric service

A teenager’s bright idea has inspired a greener approach in one of Morriston Hospital’s busiest services.

The Children’s Emergency Unit (CEU) has now adapted a more sustainable stance in its use of equipment, and is also educating young patients – and adults and staff – around climate change.

It’s all thanks to the initial inspiration of 15-year-old Aditi Kolli, whose father Sreedhar is a Consultant in Rehabilitation Medicine at the hospital.

Aditi’s lightbulb moment came during a discussion with Emergency Department consultant Sue West-Jones, who is one of three Sustainable Clinical Leads within Swansea Bay UHB.

From their conversation, a fun and creative project for paediatric patients was developed in the form of a sustainable sticker competition, which invited children to create stickers encouraging energy-saving habits like switching off lights and computers when not in use.

Aditi’s consultant was Sue West-Jones, who also happens to be one of three Sustainable Clinical Leads within Swansea Bay UHB.

From their conversation, a fun and creative project for paediatric patients was developed in the form of a sustainable sticker competition, which invited children to create stickers encouraging energy-saving habits like switching off lights and computers.

Sue said: “I was really fortunate to meet Aditi, who has a clear desire to help our unit become more sustainable, and also to educate children and adults on climate change.

“The sticker competition has proved really popular with children in CEU – it’s a perfect combination of keeping their minds busy while waiting for their appointment and, at the same time, get them thinking about how we can all be more aware of our energy usage.

“Aditi’s observation blossomed into a project that not only supported the NHS’s greener goals but also showcased the power of collaboration. It all started with a simple idea – a small spark that ignited a brighter, greener future for the unit.”

Clinical observer Dr Kinaan Khalid and CEU sister Gabby Wilcox helped developed the competition, which has prizes for first, second and third places.

The winning designs will be chosen on December 17 and will be transformed into digital stickers displayed across the hospital.

Gabby said: “As soon as the competition started, the waiting area transformed into a hub of creativity. Children of all ages poured their imaginations onto paper, crafting colourful reminders filled with drawings of smiling suns, glowing stars, and clever slogans.

“It has been really encouraging seeing young patients proudly sticking their designs onto the display board and delivering powerful messages at the same time.

“These changes are simple yet so effective.”