An NHS Grampian team member who has pioneered the power of play, and helped thousands of children throughout her career, has been recognised by a leading charity. 

 

Heather Beattie, play service manager at Royal Aberdeen Children’s Hospital (RACH), has received the Children’s Play Award from Children’s Health Scotland. The award recognises a special person or team who has made a significant difference to a child’s life through health-related play.  

 

Heather was the first person to train as a health play specialist at RACH 33 years ago and developed the play service to meet the needs of children, families, and staff.  As well as the management side of the service, Heather supports children and young people as they get ready for clinical procedures. 

 

Heather said: “It is a privilege and so rewarding to be able to help a child face and deal with things such as a blood test or scan or help them understand their illness. I am always so proud of them when they’ve been able to overcome their fears and anxieties and undergo the procedure. They are so proud of themselves too, and I wish I could bottle their smiles and courage to show others.” 

 

Health-related play is more than just a chance to have fun; it’s a serious business when it comes to children’s health and wellbeing. It can help them physically, mentally, and emotionally and is an essential part of treatment that can help speed up recovery either in hospital or at home. The team offers support and a programme of activities to help relieve boredom, continue development, establish routines, provide fun, rehabilitation, and help speed recovery. 

 

Kathryn Auchnie, a Clinical Nurse Manager at RACH, added: “The play team are simply invaluable. Their work in supporting not only children, but also their parents and carers, is vital. I am delighted Heather has won this award; it is very well-deserved recognition for her and the team she leads.” 

 

Heather said: “This award recognises the importance of play in healthcare, the people who provide it and the families that benefit from it.  I hope that winning this award will really highlight the contribution play staff and play services make in hospitals all over Scotland.”