A new initiative has been launched at Glasgow Children’s Hospital to combat loneliness among young patients. The hospital has hired its first ‘Gamer in Residence’ to ensure that kids undergoing treatment have a companion to play video games with, providing them with a source of relaxation and distraction during their hospital stay. Steven Mair, 26, has taken on this pioneering role, which is the first of its kind in the UK and Ireland, and is already making a positive impact on the young patients at the hospital.
Many children at the hospital, such as seven-year-old Jace, can have extended stays and intense treatment plans, resulting in feelings of isolation and helplessness. Steven not only plays games with the young patients but also organizes gaming events within the hospital and manages Gaming Volunteers. Moreover, he is involved in fundraising efforts to procure new gaming equipment for the wards. Research has shown a connection between playing video games and reduced anxiety in hospital settings, with some studies suggesting that gaming can even help alleviate pain.
Last year, the hospital raised over £100,000 through campaigns like ‘Games for the Weans,’ which included donations from companies like Neonhive and SPARCK. Additionally, a recent donation of $12,000 from American charity Child’s Play will go towards purchasing updated gaming consoles for the hospital. Kirsten Watson, CEO of Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity, expressed gratitude to the gaming community for supporting this initiative and ensuring that young patients always have a gaming companion.
The charity is now seeking streaming partners to host charity streams for hospitalized children, with the proceeds going towards enhancing the gaming experience for young patients. The ‘Gamer in Residence’ programme is not only providing entertainment and distraction but also fostering a sense of community and support for children undergoing medical treatment at the hospital.