The award-winning play service at Royal Aberdeen Children's Hospital supports children and young people during appointments, procedures, and treatment. Utilising specialised play techniques, the team aims to reduce anxiety, clarify complex healthcare experiences, and enhance the overall wellbeing of patients, parents, and carers. This support helps maintain a sense of normality during challenging times.
For eight-year-old Aiden Carr, who has been a regular patient since September 2025 following a diagnosis of ulcerative colitis, the play team has become a significant part of his hospital journey. His mother, Selina Brown, shared how the team has provided essential support throughout a difficult year.
Selina Brown recalled the play team's extensive involvement during Aiden's 12-day hospital stay last year, including activities like making Halloween decorations. She noted their consistent presence at every appointment, assisting Aiden with procedures such as cannulation and ensuring his needs were met. "They know how to distract and calm him," she stated. Brown also highlighted the emotional support provided to parents, as the team helps alleviate the stress of watching a child in distress.
As part of this year's Play in Healthcare Week, Aiden's artwork was selected as the winning design for the hospital's t-shirt competition. Selina Brown expressed immense pride in her son's achievement, noting his thoughtful approach to combining the concepts of play and hospital care in his design.
Heather Beattie, Play Service Manager, praised Aiden's design and the team's efforts. She emphasised that play is more than just occupation; each activity serves a purpose, from aiding understanding of procedures and reducing anxiety to supporting recovery and enabling clinical teams. "Our aim is always to help children feel empowered, supported and involved in their care," Beattie explained.
The multi-disciplinary team at NHS Grampian comprises healthcare play specialists, play workers, and volunteers who collaborate with clinical staff. Their work includes preparing children for procedures, supporting those with long-term conditions, and utilising innovative methods like virtual reality to build patient confidence.
Selina Brown reiterated the lasting impact of the team's dedication and compassion, stating, "Aiden and I really couldn't have got through the last year without their help." She stressed the importance of the service, noting its contribution to children's care and hospital experience, and its benefit to medical staff by helping to keep children calm and distracted.
Heather Beattie extended thanks to the children, young people, families, and partners like The Archie Foundation for their continued support, which enhances the care experience at Royal Aberdeen Children's Hospital.
