We were proud to be invited to be part of the SoHPS Society of Health Play Specialists 2nd annual conference last week, on Thursday 12 June, celebrating 50 years of play in healthcare.
Our Director of Services, Laura Walter, along with some of the Spread a Smile entertainers were there, sharing our amazing work and how we support the vital efforts of play specialists and teams across our NHS hospital partners.
“The conference is a chance to network and engage with fellow play professionals, celebrate the amazing work of play specialists and hear inspiring stories from health practitioners.
“Play is crucial for physical, social and emotional development and wellbeing and an essential part of childhood. At Spread a Smile, we aim to help bring the benefits of play to children and young people in hospital at a time when it might be more difficult to access and they are feeling most isolated and vulnerable.
“When a child is very unwell, they may spend extended periods in hospital, often away from the comfort of home, family, and friends, and frequently undergoing invasive or distressing treatments. In these challenging circumstances, play is far more than just a pastime — it becomes an essential part of a child’s healing journey.
“Play provides a sense of normality and familiarity, helping children regain some control in an environment that can otherwise feel overwhelming. Through play, children can express their feelings, reduce anxiety, and build resilience.” Laura Walter
Spread a Smile currently supports 39 NHS hospitals, providing opportunities for children in hospital to play, have fun and engage with our entertainers, hospital staff, families and other patients. The SoHPS conference provides an opportunity for health professionals to come together to share experiences and learn from each other, with the aim of doing even more to bring play to children in hospital.
Thank you to the Society of Health Play Specialists and all those involved with organising the conference for making us so welcome. We’re looking forward to next year already.