Could you help a Rainforest wish become a reality?

A new appeal aims to refurbish a much-loved play area for children who are staying at Diana, Princess of Wales Hospital.

 The Rainforest Ward is appealing to the public to help raise thousands of pounds to help with the refurbishment of the outdoor play area on the ward.

 Being admitted to hospital can be a scary prospect for children but seeing a fully equipped play area and toys can really make a huge difference to a child’s hospital experience.

 Northern Lincolnshire and Goole NHS Foundation Trust’s official charity, The Health Tree Foundation (HTF), are appealing to the community to help raise £5,000 for the refurbishment of the play area.

 Outdoor play equipment such as a slide, climbing frame, giant Jenga, Connect4, hopscotch and a sensory wall are the items sought after by the staff on the Rainforest Ward. The play area will also need rubber flooring making it safer for the children to play outside.

 Ward Manager, Peter Louth, said: “Children can be in hospital for a few weeks at time and they don’t want to be stuck inside a hospital.

 “Being able to get outside into the sunshine and play is great for the children as well as the parents. It provides them some normality in what can be a difficult situation.”

Paediatric Play Specialist, Paula Staines, said: “Playing outside can be a huge stress relief for the children. It acts as a form of escapism – some children do not like hospitals but being outside playing, it doesn’t feel like they are in one.

“The outdoor play area encourages physical exercise and social interaction as well as boosting morale in both the child and the parents.

“It would be lovely to have a range of outdoor activities and even a shed or a Wendy House to keep the play equipment indoors. Without the play area, children and parents really miss out on quality time.” 

If you would like to hear more about the appeal or would like to help, please contact HTF community champion Laura Gooderham on 03033 304514 or email laura.gooderham@nhs.net.

To make a donation, please visit: https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/RainforestWardplayareaappeal