Lego model aims to help young hospital patients

A NOVEL idea to allay the fears of young patients at Dumfries and Galloway Royal Infirmary has been welcomed by staff. Jim Hodgson, a 17-year-old student from Brampton in Cumbria, created an intricate Lego set of NHS Dumfries and Galloway’s children’s ward and operating theatre with the idea that it will be used to show kids what to expect before they have surgery. It includes the prep room, theatre, recovery room, ward and canteen. Jim was able to create the model thanks to funding support from DG Charity. General manager for Women and Children’s Services Lyn Durrant is over the moon and said: “Having this model will be so beneficial to all children, but even more so those who are neuro-diverse or have learning difficulties. The impact of helping children understand more about going to theatre cannot be underestimated. Jim has captured the whole of the department in his Lego design and he should be very proud of his creation.” Senior charge nurse Kirstine Burns added: “The model itself is absolutely amazing and captures the ward so well. “There is no doubt that our young patients will reap the benefit of this Lego model and will help put them at ease ahead of any treatment or theatre visit.”