Nursery World - Patients lack play staff attention

Fifty per cent of hospitalised children in England do not have access to a play specialist, a survey undertaken by the Healthcare Commission has revealed. In the first nationwide survey of its kind, children aged under 18 and their parents were asked for their views about the services they received when in hospital. Out of the 25,000 patients who stayed overnight and wanted to see a play leader, only 53 per cent were put in contact with one.

In the first nationwide survey of its kind, children aged under 18 and their parents were asked for their views about the services they received when in hospital. Out of the 25,000 patients who stayed overnight and wanted to see a play leader, only 53 per cent were put in contact with one.

More than 6,000 respondents said that they did not know that there was a play leader, while more than 7,000 said that they did not need or want to see one.

The findings reveal a letdown for Government recommendations that all children staying in hospital should have daily access to a play specialist.

Register now to continue reading

Thank you for visiting Nursery World and making use of our archive of more than 35,000 expert features, subject guides, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:

What's included