Adam’s story: Overcoming his fear of needles at the sensory vaccination clinic

15-year-old Adam has overcome his fear of needles and had two important vaccinations at a new sensory clinic run by Sheffield Children’s school nurses.

Adam and his mum, Maria, were just planning to go to the relaxed session at Concord Sports Centre to discuss his concerns about needles with a member of the team. However, Adam felt so comfortable on the day that he received two adolescent vaccinations.

Maria said: “I’m absolutely over the moon, it’s unbelievable. We’ve had so many previous appointments where I’ve been optimistic that Adam would have the vaccinations, but then due to his fear he hasn’t felt able to have them.

“We were just expecting to meet someone new at the sensory session who we could work with on an ongoing basis to eventually have the vaccinations, but he’s actually just leapt straight ahead and done it! Adam should feel really proud of himself – he’s spent a long time preparing to do this.”

Adam said: “I feel good that I’ve had the vaccinations – sharp things are scary. Now the next thing to worry about are my exams!”

The sensory rooms create a safe and comfortable environment for young people using different equipment, lights, music, and colours.

At the sessions, the Sheffield Children’s team can provide information about vaccinations (including COVID), listen to any concerns, and introduce resources that can help with fear of needles. Like Adam, there is also an opportunity for the child or young person to be vaccinated if they are comfortable with this.

The school nursing vaccination team are holding their next sensory session at Concord Sports Centre (Shiregreen Lane, S5 6AE) on Thursday 14 April from 10am to 2pm.

Drop in or call 0114 305 3230 or email scn-tr.sheffielddutysn.vacandimm@nhs.net to ask any questions or book an appointment. Any children or young people attending will need to be accompanied by their parent or carer.