MRI scans can be frightening for children and vulnerable patients, including those who are autistic, have learning disabilities or experience anxiety. Scans are noisy, enclosed and unfamiliar, and patients must stay very still. This can make appointments distressing, difficult to complete and upsetting for families. More broadly, hospital spaces can feel clinical and overwhelming for children, babies and parents at already anxious moments

We will fund an MRI-compatible entertainment system so children and vulnerable patients can watch and listen to calming content during scans, helping reduce fear and support successful appointments. The wider appeal will also provide toys, sensory and comfort items, and child-friendly improvements to waiting spaces such as UTC areas, making hospital feel calmer, kinder and more welcoming for families.