We aim to support children’s development and recovery by providing play opportunities with the aim of reducing emotional and long-term trauma. Through play children are supported to understand and cope with their hospital experiences, express feelings, reduce fear and anxiety and maintain a sense of normality in an unfamiliar environment.
Our play service is made up of registered health play specialists and nursery nurses, who work closely with the rest of the care team to advocate for children and young people and support families to have a positive hospital experience.
The team are available to provide developmental and normalising play opportunities. They provide fun experiences for patients whilst in hospital, which can be in the ward playroom or at the patient’s bed space.
Health play specialists use therapeutic play to prepare patients for procedures, distract during procedures and to recover after procedures.
Our play team are available on all inpatient and day unit wards, children’s outpatient department, dermatology, ophthalmology and community. They also help with the KidzScan project to assist children attending an MRI scan.
If you would like support from the play team during your visit, please ask a member of staff.
