New children’s playroom set to open at St Mary’s Hospital

New children’s playroom set to open at St Mary’s Hospital

10 August 2023

The space, which was outdated and no longer suitable for the growing number of patients, is being transformed into a bright, modern, and exciting play and therapies space that can meet the needs of everyone who uses it.

Thanks to your incredible support, which helped raise £251,000, work is now underway to create a multi-purpose room that is welcoming, fun and relaxing for children of all ages and a place where our dedicated therapy team can privately support young patients’ rehabilitation.

"Hospital visits are particularly challenging for children, and having a dedicated, private space for young patients to play or take part in therapy sessions will make a big difference."

Hayley Pannick, Director of Development

Alice Patrick, an Art Therapist on the children’s wards, said: "Providing art therapy sessions in a busy paediatric ward requires sensitivity, and having a dedicated space is invaluable. It enables young people to feel confident and trust the process.

“Working at bedsides is challenging. Providing young people with a more appropriate space will enable them to feel safe. It will allow young people to bring difficult thoughts and feelings to help them process their experience of hospital and their conditions without interruption.”

Pictured: The previous playroom at St Mary's Hospital.

By redeveloping the old space, we hope a new play and therapy room will enhance the hospital experience for all. We will better equip the play specialist and therapies teams to deliver their work in an environment that is comfortable and can adapt to the needs of their patients.

Hayley Pannick, Director of Development at Imperial Health Charity, said: “We’d like to say a huge thank you to our donors, supporters, and the NHS staff who have worked so hard to make this project a reality.”

“Hospital visits are particularly challenging for children, and having a dedicated, private space for young patients to play or take part in therapy sessions will make a big difference.”

The project is due to be completed at the end of August. Click here to find out how you can support the St Mary’s Children’s Fund, and how donating to St Mary's Hospital makes a real difference.