An NHS Trust is inviting the community to support its Power of Play appeal during the nation’s annual Playday celebration this week.

Playday is a nationwide event that highlights the essential role of play in a child’s life, celebrated every first Wednesday in August.

This year’s theme focuses on the culture of childhood – supporting play, fun, and friendships.

East Lancashire Hospitals NHS Trust (ELHT) says every child has the right to play every day, even when they are in hospital.

Nina Thornhill, play specialist on the children’s assessment unit and blood clinic at Royal Blackburn Teaching Hospital, said: “Play is vital in developing a child’s emotional, social, cognitive, creative, and physical development.

“For many children and young people, a hospital visit or stay can be daunting, slightly scary, and in some cases lonely.

"Play in hospital helps them feel happier, less stressed, and more resilient, making it easier to cope with treatments and procedures.”

ELHT’s dedicated play team is on hand to make sure every child and young person, along with their parents or carers, has the best possible experience during their hospital stay.

Thanks to their charity, ELHT&Me, patients can enjoy a variety of age-appropriate activities like board games, paints, and Xbox games, transforming their hospital experience into a fun and positive one.

These activities are available at Royal Blackburn Hospital and Burnley General Hospital.

Denise Gee, head of charity at ELHT, said: “Our Power of Play appeal is crucial in promoting the incredible work of our play team.

"Every donation, big or small, is very much appreciated and helps make a child’s or young patient’s hospital visit smoother, more welcoming, and enjoyable.”