14 January 2026
Creating a Calming Space: Enhancing the Waiting Room at Dunbar Medical Practice
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Waiting for an appointment can be stressful for patients and families. At Dunbar Medical Practice, feedback showed that the main waiting area felt clinical and uninviting, adding to anxiety and discomfort stress at what is often a difficult time. Thanks to generous donations, we were able to support the team at the Practice to change that.
Because of the kind support from people like you, the waiting area has been transformed into a warm, welcoming space where patients and families feel more comfortable and at ease. What was once stark and uninviting is now a calming environment designed to reduce stress and make every visit a little easier.
The enhancements included:
- Comfortable seating, including beanbags for families with children.
- Soft furnishings and décor to create a warm, relaxing atmosphere.
- A book swap station, which has quickly become a popular feature among older patients.
- Improved layout to make the space feel less crowded and more accessible.
These changes were designed in collaboration with staff to ensure the space met patient needs while still supporting clinical care.
The Impact
The refurbishment has made a significant difference to patient experience. Patients report feeling calmer, more relaxed, and less anxious while waiting for appointments. Staff have also observed reduced signs of stress and boredom, and patients give more positive feedback about their visits.
One staff member commented:
Patients were pleased with the changes. They felt calmer, more relaxed and more comfortable, which helped reduce anxiety and stress.”
Families are also benefitting, with parents and children enjoying the new seating options and activities, with the book swap also helping bring people together.
Another member of the team also explained:
We saw children asking parents to sit in the beanbags with them. The new book swap has been a popular hit with our older patients.”
The space supports around 1,000 patients and 500 family members each month, and will continue to benefit new patients for years to come.
These enhancements wouldn’t have been possible without the generosity of donors. Your support helps create thoughtful improvements that make a real difference to patients and families every day.
You can help create spaces that bring comfort, dignity, and a sense of community to patients and families when they need it most. Every gift, no matter the size, makes a real difference.
Find out more about how generous donations are supporting projects across NHS Lothian
Creating a Calming Space: Enhancing the Waiting Room at Dunbar Medical Practice
Waiting for an appointment can be stressful for patients and families. Thanks to generous donations, Dunbar Medical Practice has transformed their waiting area into a warm, welcoming space where patients and families feel more comfortable and at ease.
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