Children in Hospital Ireland Press Releases

VOLUNTEERS SOUGHT TO PROVIDE PLAY AND HAPPINESS FOR SICK SLIGO CHILDREN

Volunteers are being sought by the national charity Children in Hospital Ireland (CHI) to provide play activities and happiness for sick children in Sligo General Hospital. The charity runs play activities in 18 hospitals around Ireland through its PlayWell schemes and will be establishing a new scheme in the Sligo hospital in the coming weeks. The volunteers will work with the hospital’s Play Specialist.

   Volunteers should be over 18 years of age, enthusiastic, caring, reliable, and have two or three hours to spare, either in a morning or afternoon, once a week from Monday to Friday. CHI is holding an information meeting at the hospital early in February and will provide introductory training and ongoing support for all new volunteers. Anyone interested in volunteering or finding out more about it can contact Local 1890 252682.

   “Simple play activities, organised daily by volunteers, help to distract children and can go a long way towards easing the trauma of a visit to hospital,” Claire Connaughton, CHI Volunteer Services Manager explains. “Play with familiar toys, making a jigsaw or joining in a game of cards reminds them of home. Painting a picture, listening to a story or fun with puppets allows them deal with stresses and can lessen the impact of pain and anxiety. Having play available can also influence a quicker recovery.” 

   Hospitalisation for children can be a very traumatic and stressful experience for both the child and the family.  Play is a natural part of childhood and in hospital it has specific significance and importance in reducing the stress and anxiety experienced by children. It also delivers valuable support for parents, as having their child occupied provides them with opportunities for breaks and to relax and cope better.