This was my first visit to Haywood. I didn’t know what to expect but right from the welcoming receptionists as soon as we went in, the appointment couldn’t have been better. The department was spotless, all the staff passing through had a smile and there was just a generally relaxing atmosphere. My appointment was almost on time and the Consultant was a really professional, friendly, & helpful lady who totally put me at ease. She arranged for me to have X-rays straight after I had seen her and said I would be sent an appointment for an ultrasound in the post. Before I went she gave me the telephone number of her secretary in case I had any problems before my next appointment. I then went to x-ray where it was almost straight in. The radiographer asked if I was able to manage to get changed into a gown ( I am a wheelchair user) & said she would come back to help me do up the gown, which she did. They could not be more helpful trying to get the required x-rays without causing me any discomfort. The only thing we had a problem with was parking as there was no disabled parking available when we arrived. When we we going home my husband left me near the hospital entrance while he climbed up the steps to get the car. A nurse coming off duty came over to me to ask if I was all right. I told her I was waiting for my husband & she asked me if I would like her to wait with me. The standard of care and concern at Hayward has to be experienced to be believed. I am very glad I chose Haywood.

Doreen was admitted into Grange Ward at the beginning of August, 2019 and stayed for most of that month before she was transferred to Royal Stoke where, sadly, she died on 5th September. From the very start of her stay we were both made very welcome by the Ward Sister and all her staff. Doreen was a difficult patient with her bad back and the onset of Alzheimer's Disease but the staff were very caring with her when washing and dressing her, even though she often resisted their attention both verbally and physically. It was particularly difficult at the start but the staff soon developed a way of coping with Doreen, even getting her to sing with them before attempting to move her. Doreen did not relish being in hospital with the indignities it can bring but the staff tried their hardest to make her as comfortable as possible. I also enjoyed their company and was comforted by their words of kindness. The Ward Sister deserves special mention as does the tea lady. They and the other staff members made my visits as pleasurable as they could be, given the circumstances. My memory of the hospital was of a clean, well ventilated place with friendly staff, I will always think of it kindly. Barry (husband)