Superheroes unite for National Play in Hospital Week
13 October 2017
Health Care
Southend University Hospital have been celebrating National Play in Hospital Week 2017 this week (9-14 October) with the help of Spider-Man and Batman.
The Play Team have arranged special guests, displays, videos and
activities during this week to celebrate and promote the importance
of play within the hospital for paediatric patients on both Neptune
Ward and paediatric outpatients.
Ava Gregory, who is a Play Assistant at the Trust said, "Play is
a vital part of the care we offer to children and young people at
Southend Hospital. National Play in Hospital Week is a brilliant
chance for us to raise awareness of the importance of play for
children in hospital and showcase the positive impact that play and
distraction can have on a young patient's hospital experience. It
also gives our patients, their families and our staff the chance to
enjoy an array of fun-filled activities."
That was something echoed by Tania Tibbles, mum
to Amelie Hawkins, aged 9, from Leigh, who was excited to meet
Spider-Man. Tania said: "Events like this really help lift the
spirits and help keep Amelie happy, it makes it feel less like a
hospital. It's part of the reason why Neptune is such a brilliant
ward."
The week is organised by the National
Association of Health Play Specialists (NAHPS) and is supported by
Starlight Children's Foundation, a national charity which provides
entertainment in hospitals and hospices across the UK and grants
wishes for seriously and terminally ill children.