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‘A really scary place for children’: English hospitals have chronic lack of health play staff
UK NewsHealth•September 17, 2026 at 11:45 AMNational

‘A really scary place for children’: English hospitals have chronic lack of health play staff

By Tobi Thomas Health and inequalities correspondent•The Guardian - UK News

Analysis finds only 955 play professionals supporting 21 million child hospital admissions, leaving many traumatised for lifeChildren in English hospitals with serious illnesses are being exposed to avoidable trauma because too few health play professionals are being employed, analysis by a leading charity has found.These workers help to support children through the trauma and anxiety that can come with receiving medical treatment while in hospital by providing play opportunities through games, toys and activities. Continue reading...

Analysis finds only 955 play professionals supporting 21 million child hospital admissions, leaving many traumatised for life

Children in English hospitals with serious illnesses are being exposed to avoidable trauma because too few health play professionals are being employed, analysis by a leading charity has found.

These workers help to support children through the trauma and anxiety that can come with receiving medical treatment while in hospital by providing play opportunities through games, toys and activities.

Continue reading...

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