New Sensory Activity Bags for Patients with Learning Disabilities at A&E
The article, originally published on May 6, 2026 and sourced from Learning disability today New sensory activity bags for people with learning disabilities attending A&E – Learning Disability Today has been rephrased.
Royal Surrey NHS Foundation Trust has introduced sensory activity bags to support patients with learning disabilities and autistic individuals visiting the emergency department.
This initiative was developed by Learning Disability and Autism Lead Nurse Lauren Bowler, alongside ED nurses Jenny Oloo and Sonia Toombs. Recognising that the busy, noisy, and unfamiliar environment of the emergency department can be overwhelming for some patients, they created the bags to make the experience calmer and more comfortable.
Each bag contains carefully selected items tailored to meet patients’ needs. These include ear defenders to help reduce noise and tactile items to promote sensory comfort and self-soothing. Distraction tools such as colouring and puzzle books provide meaningful engagement while passing the time. Additionally, the bags feature simple communication aids to help patients express how they feel, supporting staff and carers in understanding and meeting their needs.
Enhancing the Hospital Experience with Sensory Support
Many hospital trusts have established pathways to assist people with learning disabilities during emergency visits by implementing reasonable adjustments. For example, in February, Kent and Medway Mental Health NHS Trust launched a co-designed digital project to ensure these adjustments are documented and accessible through a new electronic patient records system.
Royal Surrey’s sensory activity bags are part of a broader effort to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for all patients.
The sensory activity bags are funded by the Royal Surrey Charity, with the goal of creating a calmer, more manageable experience for patients and helping to alleviate their anxiety.
Lauren Bowler explained, “Many patients arrive unexpectedly at the emergency department and may not have the familiar items that typically help them feel safe and comfortable. By providing these sensory bags, we aim to offer immediate comfort and reassurance from the moment they arrive, reducing distress and supporting their emotional wellbeing throughout their stay.”
She also highlighted that the bags give staff practical tools to better engage with nervous patients, fostering a more compassionate and person-centred approach to care.
