Children and families benefit from new Emergency Department opening hours

Children and families visiting the Emergency Department at King’s Mill Hospital can now rely on a dedicated, child friendly environment around the clock, ensuring they receive the right care in the right setting whenever they need it.

The paediatric Emergency Department now operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week, meaning children no longer need to be seen in adult areas after 2am. This ensures that every child—from newborns to teenagers—has access to a calm, age appropriate space designed to reduce anxiety and support their wellbeing.

Families with children will still need to book in at the main Emergency Department desk, and from there they will be directed to the paediatric area.

Each year, tens of thousands of children and young people come through the doors of King’s Mill Hospital’s Emergency Department. The move to continuous paediatric care means families can feel confident that, no matter what time they arrive, their child will be looked after by a specialist team in an environment tailored to their needs.

The dedicated children’s area offers a bright, engaging space filled with activities and distractions that help put young patients at ease. An open plan waiting area allows staff to keep a close eye on children, while newly refurbished cubicles provide privacy and comfort during treatment. Families also benefit from dedicated breast feeding areas and mental health rooms that offer a safe, supportive space for those who need it.

This enhanced service has also improved the experience for adult patients. With additional paediatric staff supporting the department, teams can work more efficiently, reducing waiting times and ensuring that both adults and children receive timely care.

Colleagues across the Emergency Department have welcomed the extended paediatric provision, noting smoother handovers, better continuity of care, and a more reassuring experience for families.

Emma Hanson, Paediatric Lead Nurse at King’s Mill Hospital, which is part of Sherwood Forest Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, said:
“Families often tell us how much more comfortable they feel knowing their child is being cared for in a dedicated paediatric space, separate from the main Emergency Department. The environment, the specialist staff, and the child friendly facilities all make a real difference. We’re proud to offer the level of care that children and young people deserve, whenever they need it.”

Always speak to your local pharmacy or your GP practice first for advice about minor illnesses and conditions. If you need urgent care but it’s not an emergency, call NHS 111 or search “NHS 111” online to get the advice you need. In an emergency, always call 999.

You can visit the Nottingham and Nottinghamshire ICB website for advice on common childhood illnesses.