GOSH Charity Launches Families Appeal

The appeal highlights the practical and emotional care that children, parents and families need, particularly with the increased stresses that living through a pandemic brings. The money raised could help towards:

• Vital services including themhospital Play team, which helps patients understand their treatment and cope with separation from peers and siblings
• Social work and multi-faith chaplaincy teams who provide family advice and support now, and in the months ahead.
• Family accommodation so mums and dads can stay close by while their children undergo treatment

The work of our Play team has taken on increased significance during the pandemic, for both parents and children and young people, particularly as only one carer per family is allowed in the hospital to reduce the rate of infection. Due to this, the Play team have supported parents even more than before with everyday care and providing activities and entertainment for children in hospital.

“The pressure on parents with children in hospital is even greater,” says Juliet, mum to Luke and Emily (above).

“Due to restrictions, the hospital feels far more isolating, which can be even harder on the family.

“The play teams are doing a great job. Parents need the Play team to give us an opportunity to take a breath of fresh air, engage positively with our children and be part of the GOSH family.”