Play and Admissions Centre

Play and Admissions Centre

Our unique Play and Admissions Centre opened in June 2016 and is the first port of call for more than 5,000 young people who come to the hospital for operations each year. It helps them and many more children relax and enjoy themselves by bringing a little bit of home into our hospital.

Coming into hospital can be a worrying time for children and young people, and we are passionate about improving their experiences. Children benefit enormously from having access to play and activities and our Play and Admissions Centre helps them have fun, and relax with their families, away from the ward environment.

Children in our Play Centre

A dad and son in our Play Department

Facilities

The centre boasts a sensory room, outdoor play area, computer games, audio-visual entertainment, a children’s library, toys and clinical rooms.

The colourful and welcoming facility is the first of its kind in the country and combines the therapeutic benefits of play with our world-class care. Along with improving the experience of children and families the centre improves the flow of surgery journeys meaning a reduction in theatre delays and operation cancellations.

During our opening hours (see below), children can come to the play centre from their ward whenever they like, as long as they feel well enough and there is no risk of infection. Please note that they do need a grown up to come with them. 

Opening times

Our Play and Admissions Centre is open Monday-Friday from 1.00pm until 6.00pm and from 10.00am until 6.00pm on Saturday and Sunday.