Play Team Supports Children at Leeds Children’s Hospital
February 2, 2026How play helps seriously ill children during hospital stays
The Play Team at Leeds Children’s Hospital provides dedicated support to children admitted to the hospital, working seven days a week to assist young patients and their families. Their work focuses on using play to reduce anxiety and stress, helping children cope with the challenges of hospital treatment.
Role of the Play Team
Play Specialists and Play Leaders engage with children throughout their hospital stay. Their activities aim to:
- Alleviate fear and anxiety associated with medical procedures
- Help children understand what is happening to them
- Make hospital environments feel less intimidating and more familiar
- Provide comfort and companionship to children and their families
- Support recovery and rehabilitation through therapeutic play
By offering these services, the Play Team helps to make difficult experiences more manageable for young patients, contributing positively to their overall treatment journey.
Funding and support
The service relies on charitable funding to operate. It costs approximately £106 per day to fund one member of the Play Team. Donations enable the continuation of this support, ensuring that children admitted to Leeds Children’s Hospital have access to play services that can improve their hospital experience.
For more information, visit the Leeds Hospitals Charity website or view their video detailing the work of the Play Team: YouTube video.
Source: Leeds Hospitals Charity
