Going in to hospital is just child’s play

Oct 1 2009 by Marjorie Kerr, West Lothian Courier

Going in to hospital is just child’s play

A NEW £180,000 play zone has been unveiled at St John’s Hospital.

The state-of-the-art play and chill-out lounge was unveiled by top Scots footballer Neil McCann and Cbeebies favourite Nina and the Neurons.

And the new facilities mean children will be able to marvel at the virtual aquarium and plasma screens, while playing with the bundles of toys, distractions and the latest technology, or just relaxing in a quiet spot.

There is also a kids zone, which is clad in copper and has special portholes, has been designed to take the boredom or anxiety out of attending outpatient appointments for children and their siblings.

The new centre has been provided by a partnership bringing together West Lothian-based charity River Kids, the Sick Kids Friends Foundation and NHS Lothian.

The play area has become a reality after four years planning and fundraising and is already proving to be a big hit with children of all ages and families who attend St John’s.

The charity River Kids began the project by kick-starting work with £50,000, before the Sick Kids Friends Foundation supplied an additional £112,000, with NHS Lothian providing £17,000 and considerable ongoing support.

Wendy Simpson, from River Kids, said: “The play area at St John’s is the first major project River Kids has undertaken and it would not be here if it wasn’t for the time, effort, hard work and dedication put in by all those associated with this project.

“Going into hospital for the first time can be very intimidating for a child so this new facility will make a definite difference to the experience of children attending St John’s Hospital.

“It will allow children to enjoy much-needed play, knowing they have the security of mum or dad close by.

“Thanks to the generous efforts of a number of local companies and individuals, we have been able to help provide this fantastic new facility.

“Thanks must also go to our volunteers and all those West Lothian people who have given so generously.

“All River Kids trustees, past and present, are delighted that this dream has now become a reality and we want to thank everyone who has supported River Kids over the last four years.”

The Sick Kids Friends Foundation is equally thrilled with the play zone, which was built by Taylor and Fraser Ltd, from Paisley, to a design by architects Anderson Bayne with the interior designed by Kate Anderson Interior Design.

Maureen Harrison, chief executive of the SKFF, said: “Anyone who has ever had to keep a child entertained while waiting for an appointment will see the massive benefit this work represents. We are pleased to be able to support this important work.

“This is probably the most innovative refurbishment work which we have ever been involved in as the design is very original providing plenty of stimulus for children to enjoy their time in the area.

“Although children will never be there for long, this excellent play area will distract children from thinking about the appointments or treatments they are about to face, so it really does help to make sick kids feel better.”

Janice Mackenzie, chief nurse, children’s services, NHS Lothian, said: “We’re delighted that two major charities have joined forces to help deliver a better experience for the children and young people we look after at St John’s.

“We know and appreciate that hospitals can be off-putting for some people and we hope this new area will make the experience more pleasant for children and their families.”