The annual awareness week showcases the importance of providing the opportunity, space and time for play to children in hospitals.
Starlight’s latest report reveals how being held down for medical procedures can cause lasting trauma for children, and how play can prevent it.
Based on national surveys of parents, children and healthcare professionals, the findings show that 1 in 9 children feel worried or upset when held down for treatment, putting an estimated 1.4 million at risk of trauma.
The Starlight Health Play Awards 2025 shine a spotlight on the incredible professionals and teams transforming hospital experiences for children by using play as a form of medicine.
From specialists helping children face difficult procedures with confidence, to teams creating innovative new approaches, this year’s winners show just how vital health play is in reducing fear, easing trauma and using play as a medicine.
Get involved:
Share photos of how you’re celebrating Play Week on social media using the hashtag #PIHW and tagging @starlight_uk.
Healthcare professionals, please speak to your comms team about letting local media know what’s happening in your hospital.
