Barnsley Hospital

Barnsley Hospital maternity services are second to none. Highly recommend their department. I am a complex diabetic and they have safely supported me through two pregnancies. The diabetic midwife, Kirsty, knows her stuff and is really easy to talk to. The community midwife’s are also fab. I was supported by Mel from the sapphire team and Michelle, both of whom were amazing. The wards are clean, the food is good with lots of healthy options. They have a supportive nursing and midwife team on the units who promote you getting going but also help as much as you need. The consultant (C.GiGi) was upbeat and confident but also ensured I understood what was going on which was great. First pregnancy I had to have a general anaesthetic, second I had a spinal, both were C-sections. The anaesthetists are great and really down to Earth. Jenny got my spinal in and did a great job. Honestly doubt any expensive private hospital could actually do any better.

Having discovered a growth of tissue in the nasal cavity, the doctor quickly arranged for a biopsy to be taken under general anaesthetic. The consultation prior to the op, with both the anaesthetist and surgeon clarified my medical status and what was to be carried out. The staff who attended me in recovery were thorough and pleasant with nothing being too much trouble. In the hard financially starved environment of the NHS, the staff do a marvellous job. Thank you.

On the 29th of July 2025, while I was at work, my right eye suddenly closed. I went to A&E the same night and was told it was a chalazion. I asked whether there might be a problem with the nerve, and I was reassured there wasn’t. However, it later turned out not to be a chalazion, but Horner’s Syndrome, which is caused by damage to the sympathetic nervous system pathway. In my case, the cause was idiopathic, but in other circumstances it could have been something serious — such as a carotid artery dissection, which can lead to a stroke. That night, I could have been at real risk, and it makes me realise how easily a human mistake could cost a life. I understand that everyone in the NHS works under great pressure, and I truly appreciate the effort of those who tried to help me that night. I especially want to thank the GP in A&E who referred me to the specialists when I went back for the third time — I don’t know his name, but I am very grateful. I would also like to thank the ophthalmology department, who provided a high standard of care. I saw Dr Anne-Marie Firan, who was a knowledgeable and caring specialist. Thank you to all of you at Barnsley Hospital.

I can only give the hospital 5 stars. From being first seen, to everyone on ward 35 and to all the people involved in the operation many, many thanks for the work you did and do. I spoke to quite a few people who were on 12 hour shifts and it isn't good enough in that profession, too many long shifts and tiredness has to start, more staff needed.

I had a very bad blood test experience at the hospital today. Everything was fine until I went for my blood test. The nurse who attended me failed three times to draw blood before asking another nurse to try. I have had many blood tests in the past without any issues because my veins are very clear and easy to access. This was the first time a nurse has ever failed to take blood from me — and she failed three times. Although she eventually asked another nurse to help, I had to go through four attempts in total. I really dislike blood tests, and this made me feel horrible. The nurse did ask me if I was okay, but in reality, I was not okay at all, even though I said I was. She never apologised for the repeated failed attempts, which made the experience even worse. Now, the vein on my arm is swollen and sore. From what I’ve read, a nurse should not attempt more than twice before asking for help. Drawing blood should be a basic skill for nurses, and I hope no other patient has to go through what I did today.