This article first appeared on the Lewisham and Greenwich NHS Trust website
LGT’s children and young people, their families, and colleagues were treated to their annual summer party today on Safari Ward at Queen Elizabeth Hospital (QEH). Our Health Play Specialist team and the QEH Newhaven Hospital School Team from the children’s ward planned the under the sea party extravaganza.
The education team at the Old Royal Naval College in Greenwich helped our patients in making sailors’ hats, and Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance and Music in Hospitals entertained our guests . Teddy, our LGT therapy dog, made an appearance and enjoyed many cuddles. There was also a photo booth, mocktails, and a competition to pin on mermaid tails and shark fins, with the winner receiving a prize. Our LGT colleagues also received scented goodie bags with seashells.
Patient Hope’s Dad Charlie, said: “What a great summer celebration! My daughter Hope loved the music, arts, and crafts, and the party was engaging and catered to her needs.”
Heather Damons, Queen Elizabeth Newhaven Hospital School Room Teacher, said: “This summer celebration was part of the ‘School Trip in Hospital’ programme. Thank you to all of our outside providers for their help and support, which enriches our patients’ hospital experience.”
Carol Sullivan, Health Play Specialist, explained: “What a terrific party we had! It was a much-needed summer celebration, and even the sun came out. It was wonderful to see our patients, their families, and colleagues enjoying themselves.
“We plan these events and activities for our patients to make them feel at ease in the hospital while also having fun. Our colleagues’ health and well-being are very important, we were delighted to be able to give them the wellbeing bags and mocktails. Thank you to everyone who helped make this party an amazing success.” You can view photos from the event here.
Teddy, our LGT therapy dog
