Why play matters in hospital - and how £40,000 could help Leeds children
Today the YEP is backing a new campaign to support a vital service helping young patients during their time in hospital
If you walked onto a children’s hospital ward and saw a child playing, you might assume they were simply passing the time.
But you would be missing something far more important.
In a hospital, play can be preparation, communication, distraction, reassurance and therapy.
It can turn an intimidating procedure into something a child understands, give them a sense of control when so much is happening around them, and offer a precious moment of fun in a place where childhood can otherwise feel very far away.
At Leeds Children’s Hospital, that work happens every day of the week. But keeping it there comes at a cost - and £40,000 would fund a year of sessions delivered by a Play Specialist.
That’s why today the Yorkshire Evening Post is joining forces with Leeds Hospitals Charity’s Play Appeal help provide children with something precious when they are at their most vulnerable.
At Leeds Children’s Hospital, more than 11,000 children were admitted last year, with Play Specialists delivering an average of 338 therapeutic sessions every week.
They can range from distracting youngsters during procedures through to helping to explain complex surgery and treatment through the power of play.
With support from Leeds Hospitals Charity, the team has expanded its service to cover all seven days, helping children prepare for procedures, manage their fears and feel more in control of their treatment.
This support is absolutely priceless for those who need it the most – but it comes at a hidden cost.
And today we’re calling on businesses, organisations and individuals across the city to dig deep to help ensure this vital work can support even more children and their family’s during some of the darkest and most challenging days they face.
For more details and to donate to the campaign visit: www.leedshospitalscharity.org.uk/donate/play