Starlight Stories

Starlight endorses best practice guidance for neurodivergent children who require surgery or procedures

Best practice guidance for children and young people with individual or additional needs undergoing surgery or other procedures has been published by the Association of Paediatric Anaesthetists of Great Britain & Ireland (APAGBI).

The guidance is designed to support any hospital or elective surgical hub which provides services for children and young people (aged 18 and under) who have learning disabilities, neurodivergence or additional needs.

Being in hospital or undergoing treatment can be frightening and distressing for all children but for children with additional needs are more likely to find healthcare interactions and environments even more challenging.

The guidance aims to:

  • Ensure equitable access to healthcare
  • Reduce the risk of delays or cancellations on the day of surgery
  • Improve patient and parent experiences, reduce anxiety and help build confidence for future healthcare interactions
  • Devise individual care pathways in advance with reasonable adjustments to allow for a smooth perioperative journey

The guidance also:

  • Includes information about the importance of health play and play specialists in healthcare settings to prepare, distract and improve children’s healthcare experiences.
  • Promotes the co-produced NHS England and Starlight Play Well Toolkit which provides important guidance for commissioners and practitioners.

We're delighted to have had input into this guidance which will support children and their carers to be actively involved in the design of their healthcare journeys in addition to helping them understand the importance of accessing health play services. 

Laura Walsh, Director of Play in Healthcare at Starlight

“Healthcare can be a scary world for all children. For children with additional needs, it can be even scarier. Starlight research and evidence show how health play can prepare children for surgery and other procedures and build their resilience. Ultimately, better healthcare experiences will lead to better health outcomes.” - added Laura.