Animals bring festive joy to children in hospital this Christmas
Animals including snakes, guinea pigs and even tarantulas have brought festive cheer to Nottingham Children’s Hospital (NCH).
The animals arrived at Queen’s Medical Centre (QMC) from Animal Encounters Derbyshire to visit young patients ahead of Christmas.
During the visit 12-year-old Hugo Hart had the opportunity to hold a guinea pig.
Hugo’s mum Katie Darby said: “He’s been in hospital for a month now, so things like this are making his days more enjoyable and giving him new experiences.
“Little things like this are taking the edge off the fact he’s not at home for Christmas.”
The animal encounter visits, funded by Nottingham Hospitals Charity, offer children a magical escape from hospital life and the chance to bond with cuddly creatures, easing the stress of their stay.
Laura Lennon, Nottingham Children's Hospital Play Specialist at NUH said: “I’m so grateful to Nottingham Hospitals Charity for making it possible to fund such fun and exciting events for our young patients.
“Providing regular experiences like these means the impact of charity donations goes much further, creating lasting memories for our patients and their families and a welcome distraction from the hospital environment."
Nigel Gregory, Chief Executive of Nottingham Hospitals Charity, said: "We're really pleased to have funded these Animal Encounters visits for young patients spending time in Nottingham Children's Hospital.
“No child wants to be in hospital, especially over the festive period, but these visits will help bring some joy and laughter to children in hospital over the festive season and beyond. Thank you to all our donors who have helped make this possible."
Rebecca Jackson from Animal Encounter Derbyshire said: “Visiting the hospital is one of my favourite activities to do with the animals as I get to bring a smile during the children’s stay and help take their mind off being in hospital. It’s a really rewarding experience for everyone involved.”
The animal visits are part of a six-month project with Nottingham Hospitals Charity and the Children’s Hospital, to create unique and memorable experiences for children during their stay.
This initiative has been made possible by the Grant a Christmas Wish appeal. You can find out more on the Charity’s website .
