Our new Children and Young People Volunteers, Lisa, Umar, Ernst, Morgan and Ella recently completed their first shifts at CHFT and have already made a huge impact in our children and young people departments.

Their job is to provide engagement and play to our patients, with the help of their Trolley of Sunshine which is filled with toys, crafts, board games and more.

The response to the new role from patients and their families has been spectacular, with one little boy excitedly chasing the trolley because he knew it would be bringing toy cars. His mum said: "He's been waiting for the trolley all morning!"

Other parents have also expressed what a fantastic role this is, and how it has lifted their child’s mood. "They are genuinely excited to see the volunteers and the trolley, their faces light up, smiles appear, and they show excitement and eagerness to play and get creative."

This role was co-designed with Children and Young People Lead Nurse Julie Mellor, Play Team Lead Adele Johnston-Hooson and Volunteering Services Lead, Stevie Cheesman. They listened to the feedback provided by families and patients and discovered children wanted more play in order to make the hospital a less alien place to be.

Stevie said: “This role was a collaborative approach. It was essential we cater to all ages and include those restricted to bed, or with learning disabilities. This is why the Trolley of Sunshine was created; to bring play directly to patient bedsides and allow parents a little down time to take a break.

This role enhances the Play Team service and allows qualified staff to focus on distraction pre or post procedure or surgery. This is truly a beautiful role with immense impact to all; parents, patients, staff and service.”

The Trolley of Sunshine is re-stocked by Gifts in Kind through donations. There is a wish list linked to Amazon for anyone wanting to support the team. The link is on our Charity's website.