THE Princess Alexandra Hospital NHS Trust (PAHT) has collaborated with Spread a Smile, a charity that aims to bring joy and laughter to unwell children who are visiting and staying in hospital.

The Spread a Smile team consists of professional entertainers, musicians, magicians, poets, face-painters, and many more, who spend quality time with children at the hospital oncology clinics each month.

The team also host a number of virtual group visits, drop special treats to the hospital, and organise activity themed events throughout the year.

Sharon McNally, chief nurse and deputy chief executive at PAHT, said: “A heartfelt thank you to the Spread a Smile team for sharing joy across PAHT.

“Visiting or staying in hospital can be a worrying experience for many, especially our younger patients, so this initiative helps to put them at ease and make a real difference.

“It’s also a worrying time for parents and carers to see their child unwell, and we hope that seeing a smile on their child’s face brings comfort and reassurance.

“We are committed to living our trust values and this initiative is a great example of our three key values – patient at heart, everyday excellence, and creative collaboration. Thank you to all involved with making this project happen.”

Lucy Jackson, Spread a Smile chief executive officer, added, “We are delighted to offer entertainment visits to the children’s oncology clinic at PAHT, both in person and online.

“The visits help younger patients to feel more relaxed and comfortable within the hospital setting, whilst taking their minds off the various treatments and procedures that they will need to undergo.

“We look forward to future visits and particularly during the lead up to the festive season.”