Harvey's Lab Tours

A tour of the laboratory can transform how young patients and their families view their healthcare. For children, it’s a rare chance to step behind the scenes and connect the dots between the tests they have and the treatment they receive.

Visits to the lab help young patients to:

• understand the importance of their blood tests and other samples
• meet the biomedical scientists who work behind the scenes
• feel more confident and in control of their healthcare journey

For families, it’s a chance to to ask questions in an informal setting, learn more about the testing process, and see the care that goes into every result. These moments can make hospital visits feel less daunting, strengthen trust in the care team, and help everyone feel more connected to the journey ahead.

Biomedical scientists also value these visits, as meeting the patients behind the samples brings a human connection to their work. It helps strengthen ties with their clinical colleagues by encouraging collaboration and creating a shared understanding of how each team’s role supports patient care.

I feel braver now when I have my blood taken at hospital. I enjoyed wearing a white lab coat, writing out a blood test label, and finding lots of different equipment around the lab. At the end, I got a special certificate and a Harvey teddy, and I took them to school to show my teachers and friends in assembly!

Abbie

It's so wonderful meeting these inspirational kids and their families on the tours. I'm so glad we are part of the Harvey's family!

Emma Loxley, Senior Biomedical Scientist, Blood Transfusion,

Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust

Our department treats up to 50 children at a time for conditions like leukaemia and solid tumours. These young patients undergo frequent blood tests, which can be daunting. Whilst we provide education and reassurance, seeing the process up close can make a big difference, helping to reduce fear, build understanding, and empower both children and their families.

Claire Butler

Oncology specialist nurse at Staffordshire Children’s Hospital at Royal Stoke