From magicians and therapy dogs to storytelling and pizza parties, young patients at Basildon Hospital have been enjoying a special week of activities to show how play can make a real difference to children receiving hospital care.
During Play in Healthcare Week (5 to 9 October), teams across Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust have been highlighting the important role play has in helping children cope with treatment, reduce anxiety and feel safe and supported in hospital.
Seven-year-old Willow experienced that support first-hand after being admitted to Basildon Hospital for treatment when a spider bite led to an infection in her arm.
Her mum, Stacey Pigrone, from Canvey island, said: “Willow has only been in hospital for a couple of days, but the Play team have already made such a difference. We can’t thank them enough for their support and kindness.”
Throughout the week, the Play team organised a packed programme of activities, including visits from favourite characters, singalongs, arts and crafts, storytelling, games, a therapy dog, a magician and even a Friday night pizza party.
But play in hospital is about much more than having fun. Health Play Specialists can help children prepare for surgery, use play and distraction techniques during procedures, support families following a difficult diagnosis, and help children continue to play, learn and develop during a hospital stay.
Lisa Kawa-Akenbo, Lead Health Play Specialist at the Trust, said: “We can’t change why a child is in hospital, but we can help make their time here a little less worrying. Children may not remember every test, treatment or procedure, but they often remember the people who made them smile, helped them feel brave and reassured them that they weren’t facing it alone.”
