Heart surgery is traumatic and takes a big toll on the emotional wellbeing of young patients and their families. Children often forget to simply be children and have little opportunity to have fun. Many struggle to cope with the challenges of their hospital stay which can have a long lasting impact. Additional services that support children and families through this challenging time often falls outside of the responsibilities of the (already stretched) NHS budget.

The Clown Doctors is an innovative programme offering children & their families the opportunity to take part in artistic play. Performing arts such as storytelling, music & clowning are used to engage the children & to help them come to terms with their situation. Whilst in hospital, children still need to communicate, adapt to change & to have a sense of 'self’. The Clown Doctors offer an impartial way of entertaining, supporting & empowering the children who may struggle with these issues