We've launched a new dedicated gaming resource to boost therapeutic play in healthcare enhanced by a new partnership with a leader in innovative gaming accessories STEALTH.
The company have committed over £27,000 worth of gaming accessories to a new Active Gaming Box which is being distributed to health play teams in hospitals, clinics and hospices across the UK to help boost the tools health play professionals already use to support children undergoing treatment.
More than 240 health settings have already received the new boxes, including children’s A&E departments, district general and specialist hospitals, children and adolescent mental health teams and a dental hospital.
The generous product donation from STEALTH which includes controllers, headphones, racing wheels and cases, will significantly strengthen the boxes’ contents, helping Starlight deliver even more engaging play experiences for children.
This box is about more than entertainment. It aims to restore control, confidence and fun. Children can choose how they play and move to support physical, emotional and social wellbeing. (Image: Northwick Park Hospital's Play Team with an Active Gaming Box they have just received)
The accessories will complement items such as Nintendo Switch consoles and Ring Fit Adventure, helping to make movement fun and engaging. These movement-based games support gentle exercise in a hospital room and can help with building strength, flexibility and balance. For these reasons it can support physiotherapy goals as well as reduce stress, lift mood and give children a sense of progress. Games such as these can bring families and staff together through play too.
We cannot thank you enough for this generous gift. It will make a difference for our adolescent patients, who often spend long periods in the Children’s Emergency Department. Having the gaming set available will help ease their anxiety and stress, and most importantly, help pass the time.” - Vicky Fernandes, A&E Play Team, University Hospital Lewisham, who recently received a box
Gaming supports child development in many ways. It improves focus and memory. It helps with problem-solving and goal setting. It builds gross and fine motor skills and encourages teamwork and communication. It helps children express themselves creatively and it builds confidence and emotional resilience. It also teaches patience and self-regulation and makes space for joy. - Elizabeth Townsend, Starlight’s Service Delivery Manager
Nicola Wilson, Starlight’s Head of Corporate Fundraising (pictured left) - "We’re thrilled to partner with STEALTH on this exciting development. This support means we can reach more children with high-quality, inclusive play experiences.
“Every child deserves to play. The boxes are designed to be accessible and the games reflect different cultures and characters. Settings can be adapted to meet different needs so no child is left out.”
Daniel Kelly, Brand Manager at STEALTH - “STEALTH is committed to supporting communities and families by making gaming more accessible. This partnership allows the company to contribute products that will be used directly by children who benefit from Starlight’s services.
“We’re proud to support Starlight and the incredible work they do. Donating our products to enhance the Active Gaming Box felt like a natural way for us to give back, and we’re excited to play a role in bringing joy and play to children who need it most.”