Young patients and staff at Royal Cornwall Hospital celebrated National Play in Hospital Week, last week.

The event was organised by the National Association of Health Play Specialists (NAHPS) and is supported by Starlight Children’s Foundation, a national charity which provides entertainment in hospitals and hospices across the UK and grants wishes for seriously and terminally ill children.

The week saw a variety of treats, ranging from Jenny Marquis doing amazing body art, the PAT (Pets as Therapy) dog giving young patients plenty of cuddles, as well as story tellers, entertaining children and their families.

Patients on the children's ward at RCHT have been expressing how play helps them to cope with any pain and fear while they are in hospital.

Gill Caddy, play specialist at the Royal Cornwall Hospital, said: “Play is a vital part of the care we offer to children and young people at RCHT. National Play in Hospital Week is a brilliant chance for us to raise awareness of the importance of play for children in hospital and showcase the positive impact that play and distraction can have on a young patient’s hospital experience. It also gives our patients, their families and our staff the chance to enjoy an array of fun-filled activities.”