Young patients and staff at the Royal Cornwall Hospital celebrated National Play in Hospital Week, last week.

The event was organised by the National Association of Health Play Specialists (NAHPS) and is supported by Starlight Children’s Foundation, a national charity which provides entertainment in hospitals and hospices across the UK and grants wishes for seriously and terminally ill children.

The week saw a variety of treats, including Jenny Marquis doing body art, the Pets as Therapy dog giving young patients plenty of cuddles, and story tellers, entertaining children and their families.

Patients on the Children ward at RCHT have been expressing how play helps them to cope with any pain and fear while they are in hospital.

Play specialist Gill Caddy said: ’Play is a vital part of the care we offer to children and young people at RCHT.’

For more information on National Play in Hospital Week, you can visit: