Nicolson Institute pupils brighten the Paediatric Bay at Western Isles Hospital

Pupils from the Nicolson Institute have brought colour and creativity to the Paediatric Bay at the Western Isles Hospital with their fantastic artwork.

Earlier this year, a dedicated and secure Paediatric Bay was re-established within the Medical 1 Ward in the Western Isles Hospital. This area provides a comfortable and welcoming space for families with unwell children and has recently undergone a transformation to make it more child friendly.  

NHS Western Isles wished to improve the environment for the children and decided to make the décor brighter and more age appropriate. As part of this project, the Board approached the Education Department at Comhairle Nan Eilean Siar who arranged for the pupils to take part in this art project.

Seventeen third-year pupils from the Nicolson Institute designed artwork to be displayed around the area. The goal was to involve the community in making the area feel less clinical, believing the best people to personalise an area for children, were children themselves.

The pupils were given a brief to create bright, bold, and inclusive artwork—both age and gender neutral. Many of the abstract designs feature connections to local landmarks and landscapes, adding a unique and meaningful touch to the space.

We’re very grateful to Stornoway Media Centre, who professionally printed the designs, and to our own Works Department who carefully mounted the designs onto the walls.

Frances Roberston, Nurse and AHP Director/Chief Operating Officer, NHS Western Isles, said: “We are thrilled with the new artwork designed by the pupils, the designs are fantastic and completely met the brief we gave them. The artwork has been a big hit with both children and adults.”

Additional support from NHS Western Isles Endowments Fund has allowed the ward to purchase bright coloured armchairs which also transform into comfy beds to allow parents to stay with their children during their hospital stay. Bright linen and hospital screens are also being procured to further enhance the space.