- NHS hospital
Doncaster Royal Infirmary
Assessment report published 3 August 2026
Contents
Ratings - Services for children & young people
Our view of the service
The children and young people’s assessment at Doncaster Royal Infirmary took place on 22 and 23 April 2026, with additional virtual interviews completed on the 7 May and 14 May 2026. All 34 quality statements were assessed. The service was rated good overall.
The service had a proactive and positive safety culture, characterised by openness, transparency and a commitment to learning. Safety incidents were investigated thoroughly, with learning shared across multidisciplinary teams to improve practice. Effective safeguarding systems were in place, supported by good partnership working with external agencies.
Leadership was visible and supportive. Staff described escalation processes as clear and effective. Clinical staff demonstrated appropriate knowledge and use of paediatric early warning systems (PAWS) to identify deterioration. Policies, guidance and escalation pathways, including for sepsis and business continuity, were accessible and understood.
We identified concerns previously in 2017, which included workforce capacity, culture, and care for children with mental health needs. At this inspection, we found demonstrable improvements in staffing levels, some training areas and support. Senior leaders were actively involved in clinical areas to maintain safety and provide support.
Mental health provision had improved. Risk assessments were in place, staff had completed relevant training, and access to CAMHS support and a dedicated mental health champion strengthened care delivery.
Safeguarding training compliance for medical staff was 100%, and the environment was clean and well maintained.
However, some concerns remained:
The service did not fully meet Facing the Future standards, these are set standards describing how children and young people should receive safe, high-quality medical care
Assurance could not be provided regarding access to a band 8a nurse overnight.
Low compliance in paediatric life support training for nursing staff and variable performance in the use of the paediatric advanced warning score tool.
Audit action plans and confirmation of the progress made following some audits were not identified
No consent audit programme
No formal children’s strategy which would inform future service provision
People's experience of this service
Parents, children and young people we spoke with confirmed positive experiences. Nursing staff were described as ‘nice and caring’ and ‘brilliant.’ Privacy and dignity were respected and concerns when raised were listened to and taken on board. Parents feedback included a short wait in the emergency department prior to being bought to the ward and open access to the ward for patients with long term conditions.
Families, children and young people were encouraged to participate in agreeing care plans. Staff took the time to speak with the child and / or young person and only approached the parent when needed for further information.
People said they felt supported and support was in place for children and young people with mental health, learning disability and disability needs. Communication tools were used when required to ensure communications were clear and understood.