Young patients at Basildon Hospital have been enjoying a special week of activities designed to demonstrate how play can significantly improve the experience of children receiving hospital care. During Play in Healthcare Week (5 to 9 October), teams across the Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust highlighted the crucial role of play in helping children manage treatment, alleviate anxiety, and feel secure and supported during their hospital stays.
Seven-year-old Willow experienced this support directly after being admitted to Basildon Hospital for treatment following an infection in her arm caused by a spider bite. Her mother, Stacey Pigrone, from Canvey Island, expressed her gratitude, stating: "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 comprehensive programme of events. These included visits from popular characters, singalongs, arts and crafts sessions, storytelling, games, a therapy dog visit, a magician's performance, and a Friday night pizza party.
However, play in a hospital setting extends beyond mere entertainment. Health Play Specialists utilise play and distraction techniques to help children prepare for surgery and cope during procedures. They also provide support to families facing difficult diagnoses and ensure children can continue to play, learn, and develop throughout their hospitalisation.
“"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."
Lisa Kawa-Akenbo, Lead Health Play Specialist at the Trust, commented on the impact of the team's work: "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."
