University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire (UHCW) NHS Trust partnered with Graphic Signs to modernise its Children’s Emergency Department for the first time since 2006. The project focused on delivering clear, inclusive wayfinding and calming visual graphics—designed to reduce anxiety, improve patient flow, and create a more reassuring environment for children and their carers.
University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire (UHCW) NHS Trust is the main hospital serving Coventry and Rugby. With a large A&E department, it is one of the UK’s largest teaching hospitals, delivering critical and specialist care to a diverse community.
The Children’s Emergency Department had not been updated since 2006 and required a full visual refresh. Following design development by Art in Site, Graphic Signs was appointed—via the ESPO 344 framework—for the production and installation of all signage and graphics.
Given the urgent nature of A&E environments, signage needed to communicate clearly and instantly. Designs incorporated simple questions, accessible language, and friendly imagery to support children and carers navigating a high-stress setting.
Inclusivity was central to the project. The hospital conducted thorough consultations involving management, nurses, and patients to ensure the final designs were practical, accessible, and supportive of diverse needs.
Graphic Signs conducted detailed site measurements, participated in pre-installation meetings, and carefully planned installation to avoid disruption. The full project delivery was completed within three weeks, with on-site installation finalised in just four days.
Large-format wall and glass graphics featuring calming colours and cartoon characters
Clear, bold typography to aid fast and accessible communication
Informational signage outlining patient journey steps and FAQs
Printed ceiling tiles designed to distract and comfort children during treatment
Fire-rated, anti-scratch, durable materials to reduce long-term maintenance
Careful project management through ESPO framework compliance
Four-day installation programme to minimise operational disruption
Complete refresh delivered within a three-week project timeline
On-site installation completed in just four days
Enhanced patient and carer understanding of processes
Improved wayfinding and departmental flow
Reduced anxiety through calming visuals and engaging distractions
Durable signage designed for long-term NHS use
Healthcare environments require more than functional signage—they demand empathy-driven design. By combining inclusive consultation, durable materials, and child-centred creativity, this project demonstrates how thoughtful graphics can positively influence patient experience and operational efficiency. Clear communication reduces stress, supports faster patient flow, and enables clinical teams to focus on delivering urgent care. Through collaboration and careful planning, Graphic Signs helped transform a high-pressure environment into a more welcoming and reassuring space for children and families.
