Children are at greater risk of experiencing trauma during hospital stays due to lack of autonomy, painful procedures and the challenging hospital environment. As vulnerable dependents, children have lower capacity to process difficult situations and with the isolation and under stimulation, this can have detrimental effects on their development and wellbeing. This overwhelming experience can cause long-term effects and leave a trauma footprint that can stay with a child into the future.

Play is a vital part of childhood; it encourages development, socialisation and creativity and allows a child to flourish. Our Giggle Doctors interact 1:1 with children in hospital to co-create playful moments using artistic skills such as music, puppetry and improvisation to relieve stress and reduce anxiety. They are specially trained over 2 years to work with all children aged 0-18 regardless of illness, disability or complex need, working sensitively to adapt their approach to each child.