Inside Scots 'teddy hospital' putting sick kids at ease before treatment
A Scots 'teddy hospital ' is aiming to transform the experience for young people and their families.
Glasgow's Royal Hospital for Children (RHC) is ensuring children have a gentle start to their medical journey.
In doing so, it is making sure one of the first places families visit is the beloved teddy hospital.
This unique space helps patients prepare for medical procedures through play.
Here, they can explore medical equipment, hear the sounds of an MRI machine, and learn what it means to be 'put to sleep' for surgery, all in a calm, friendly environment.
This approach is especially helpful for children with autism or other neurodiverse conditions, making the hospital feel less intimidating.
The teddy hospital is a cornerstone of the RHC experience and is gaining national attention for its innovative approach.
Elsewhere, in the theatres department, each anaesthetic room is themed with different animals, and colourful artwork, based on real stories from patients and families, guides children through their journey.
The team is also exploring new ways to use lighting and sound to help children feel even more at ease, particularly those with sensory sensitivities.
The outpatient department is another area where creativity and care come together with plans currently underway to introduce new sensory and immersive technologies to better support neurodiverse patients, ensuring that every child receives care tailored to their needs.
The final stop on Professor Gardner's visit was the hospital's very own Medicinema —a fully equipped cinema where children can watch the latest films in a fun, inclusive setting.
Whether attending as an outpatient or staying in the hospital, children can enjoy movie screenings with their families, sometimes even celebrating birthdays or meeting their favourite football players.
This special space, created in partnership with the Medicinema charity, brings joy and a sense of normalcy to children facing serious health challenges.
The hospital wants families to know that they're stepping into a place where your child's emotional wellbeing is just as important as their physical health.
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