Patient stories

Real experiences, shared by our patients

Our patients and their families generously share their journeys to help others understand what to expect and to show the impact of compassionate, high-quality care.

Why we share stories

Every patient’s experience is unique, and by sharing these stories, we aim to:

• Inform: Learn about different services and care pathways from those who’ve been through them.
• Support: Feel reassured that you’re not alone on your healthcare journey.
• Inspire: See the dedication of our staff and the positive difference care can make.
  

How stories are collected

Our stories come directly from patients and their families. Each story is shared with permission and is normally anonymised to protect privacy.

Positive experiences

This section shares experiences that highlight the dedication, compassion and expertise of our staff. Every story celebrates the care we provide and the positive impact it has on the people we support.

Maternity, Gloucestershire Royal

"Such a wonderful experience giving birth to my son here recently.
12 years ago I had a similarly wonderful experience giving birth to my daughter, too. Such a skilled and caring maternity team - I couldn't have asked for anything more. Thank you!!"

Anon, October 2025

Oral and Maxillofacial department

"I recently had to have some cancer removed from my lip by the Max Fax Team. The whole experience from start to finish was superb. I was exceptionally well cared for and my scar has healed really quickly. Thank you for taking such good care of me."

Chris

Urology department

"I had to attend GRH Urology for an “invasive investigation” and was very apprehensive about what was to come. I need not have worried.

"The two nurses who conducted the procedure were wonderful throughout. They put me at ease and made the whole process seem very normal. They were chatty, friendly and both had a sense of humour which helped me greatly.

"An excellent advertisement for the NHS!"

Anon

Physiotherapy department

"I visited the physiotherapy department today and had an appointment with a wonderful physiotherapist. The physiotherapist really listened to my worries and showed a lot of empathy and understanding, she gave me time to explain myself fully.

"My symptoms and treatment options were explained to me fully, in understandable language and in a very gentle, encouraging way. Where the physiotherapist wasn’t able to answer a question - because if asked something outside of her expertise - she let me know honestly that she couldn’t say, and explained which practitioner would be better placed to answer this. The physiotherapist explained to me what they would do to explore further or escalate if I didn’t respond as expected to my treatment plan, and this was really reassuring.

"My appointment was very encouraging, without minimising my experiences and I went away feeling hopeful and informed. Moreover, the physiotherapist still saw me despite my being late (as I’d lost my way around the hospital grounds) and was very patient when I gave quite ‘waffle-y’ responses! Really happy with my experience and I hope the team know what a fab job they’re doing.”

Anon

Where we can improve

We know that listening to patients honestly is one of the most powerful ways to improve care. This section shares experiences that help us understand what we can do better so we can learn, adapt and ensure everyone receives safe, compassionate, and effective treatment.

Every story helps shape the way we care for our patients today and in the future

Imaging department, Cheltenham General

"Came in on the 1st October to have a follow up MRI scan in regards to a lump in my check. Had a follow up appointment on 23rd November to be informed they have my MRI but not the report. So was a pretty pointless consultation. I was informed that this would be chased up and sent over the report. I have tried 3 times to speak to someone and left a message every time. I still have not heard anything back!

"The appointment letter had no map or information leaflet about the procedure. Eventually got to the hospital to find the parking area cramped with uneven appalling road surface. No clear signs on the outside of the building. Found an extremely helpful lady in the shop who was heading in the direction needed to go. Took nearly 10 minutes in an absolute maze of a building."

Anon, October 2025

Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS)

This page is for sharing stories; however, our PALS team are here to support our patients, relatives and colleagues by discussing their experiences and helping to resolve concerns. Please contact them if you would like to discuss your care.