A week-long programme of fun and therapeutic play is to take place at Wigan Infirmary as part of Play in Hospital Week (7th October – 11th October).
Play Specialists on Rainbow Ward at Wrightington, Wigan and Leigh NHS Foundation Trust’s Wigan site designed a programme of activities that will be both fun and beneficial to the patients on the ward.
All week-long children and staff will take part in activities including messy play, junk modelling, hospital role play and finally, a visit from a therapy dog to finish the week.
Patient, Phoebe playing with goo
Play in Hospital Week aims to focus on the role of Play Specialists and the impact that they have on a child’s time in hospital.
Nicola Crowther, Play Specialist on Rainbow Ward said: “Not a lot of people realise that when we’re playing with the children, it’s therapy for them.
“We give them something positive to focus on rather than just the treatment. They play at home so why shouldn’t they play here too.”
Nicola added: “Play makes a massive difference on the children and our parents often comment that they can’t believe the positive effect it has on their child.”
Heather Dineley, Paediatric Sister on Rainbow Ward, said: “Our Play Specialists are an invaluable part of the team on the ward.
“Many children can be anxious about being in hospital or can spend long periods of time with us and our Play Specialists help to alleviate their anxiety and assist in their care. We’re very lucky to have such a great team with us here at Wigan.”
