When children are admitted to hospital they are at their most vulnerable; not only are they poorly but they are also separated from family, friends and familiar surroundings. Children are often anxious, unhappy and may have phobias surrounding the procedures they will encounter. The COVID-19 pandemic has added new complexities, with children only allowed one parent or carer to be with them during their stay. During such strange times, play, in its many forms, is more important than ever.

The play specialist team see approximately 1,723 inpatients and 2,010 outpatients in an average month. Working directly with children across 14 areas of the hospital, covering a 7 day service, they use their understanding of child development and therapeutic play to help children cope with pain, anxiety or fear they might experience during their time in hospital. Play is used to prepare children for treatment, distract them during a procedure, and help them understand what they have experienced.