The NHS and its users are begging for a reform which will bring about a change in peoples’ perceptions of the service. Current NHS buildings cannot fully cater for patients needs, both physically and emotionally. This seems to be mostly to do with their outdated structures, often described as resembling large-scale prisons, which unintentionally deter patients and relatives from visiting and being treated in it. People do not feel confident about the services provided by the NHS or the staff providing it; a large number of them believing that they would be better off not accessing the service at all.

All healthcare professionals have to abide by a code of conduct which states that as professionals, they have a care of duty towards every patient under their care (John Wiley & Sons, 2012). A large number of these professionals are discouraged by the lack of resources, support and the conditions they have to work in. It does not boost staff morale nor does it make it easier for them to provide the best care possible. This research has helped me realise that architecture and interior design could, in a way, save and improve the NHS if only the powers that be were willing to invest in change. Yes, their budget is low but would not the outcomes outweigh the expenditures? Would there not be an overturn on the amount of money that they spend fighting off infection and disease? My findings show that the consensus is that larger, single rooms would be of more benefit than bays. Not only would patients stop worrying about disclosing their personal details to everyone else on the ward and not be exposed to such high levels of noise, which in turn would lower stress and panic levels, as it would be easier to contain any episodes of easily spreading viruses. As I witnessed many a time, the latter is responsible for logistic and financial difficulties as no patients can be moved in or out of the wards which greatly impacts in departments such as A&E. Larger windows would allow for more light and a greater sense of space. Again, in my time working in the hospital, I saw depressed patients who wished they were in more spacious and less bunker like rooms. A lot of them were quite weak so they spent their days laying flat which meant that they could not look out of the window. Outdoor and indoor gardens were a popular choice amongst the participants in my questionnaires. Being in contact with nature helps people feel whole and it encourages them to think positive and want to be well. Happy people could mean more patients willing to comply with treatment which could cut down hospital admissions.

Finally, for healthcare staff, having access to private, modern areas for meetings and other important tasks, and also relaxation areas for when the going gets tough, could massively increase productivity and job satisfaction. A lot of the staff, that work full time, does not have the chance to see day light whilst at work. Many of the participants expressed their dislike of artificial light as it makes them feel tired and low in mood. As mentioned above,

larger windows and perhaps intermittently placed see-through panels could allow for buildings to be lit up and less gloomy.

The NHS seems to be set for failure if it sticks to its old ways. It would be interesting to see its dire but still existing resources being used in the improvement of healthcare facilities made for the sole purpose of healing.