24-06-2025
Refurbished playroom making big difference at Glasgow hospital
The facility at the Royal Hospital for Children offers a safe, stimulating environment tailored to each child's needs.
It can be adjusted to cater to a range of abilities and preferences, serving as a space for movement and physiotherapy or a calming retreat for children with neurodiverse conditions.
Alfie and his mum (Image: Supplied) The room, originally established in 2015, was funded by the McIntyre family in memory of their daughter Chloe.
It continues to be known as Chloe's Room, with a plaque of acknowledgement above the door.
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This year, the room was transformed with funding from the Glasgow Children's Hospital Charity and the creativity of the hospital's play team.
Wendy McKechnie, health play assistant, said: "The children got so much out of the room that already existed, and we knew that a refresh with some of the latest technologies would have a big impact.
Alfie (Image: Supplied) "Thanks to the support of Glasgow Children's Hospital Charity, we've created a space that truly enhances the hospital experience.
'For children going through difficult treatments, even a short visit to the sensory room can lift their spirits. It's also a valuable tool for physiotherapy as children can be more relaxed and engaged, making therapy more effective and enjoyable.'
The room features an Omi Vista interactive projector, which displays colourful games on the floor that respond to movement.
This, along with touchpad mats that make sounds with movement, bubble tubes, and LED lights, provides visual and tactile stimulation for children with limited mobility.
Julia-Grace with light squares (Image: Supplied) Amanda Kelso, mum of patient Alfie, said: "Alfie has Trisomy 21 and is peg-fed, so physiotherapy is a big part of his care.
"Doing sessions in the sensory room helps keep him engaged and gives him a welcome change of scenery.
"After three months in the hospital, that variety means a lot.'
Stephanie Jack, mum of Julia-Grace, said: 'Julia-Grace has gone from going to school and attending clubs with her friends, to being in hospital for the past few months, so having any kind of distraction and a change of scenery keeps her going.
"It's great to have space where she can play or just chill out.
'She loves playing with the floor projections, and the Play Team are excellent at making the games appropriate for each child too.'
