Friends of Children in Hospital began in 1988 with the vision of needing to make things better for children in hospital, and their families.
Groups had beens set up in Auckland and Dunedin, and following our group starting, a group in Nelson also began.
A public meeting was held in 1988 at the Central Plunket Rooms (Main Oxford Terrace), organised by Janine Randle, who had been charge nurse in the medical and surgical wards at Christchurch Hospital. When she left the hospital and joined Plunket, she was reminded by staff at the Hospital
that she was going to set up a group.
At the 1st public meeting 125 people attended, and a committee and advisors were set up and a pamphlet was made. The group became an Incorporated Society in November 1990 after the first Annual General Meeting.
At the present time, children in hospital are at Christchurch Hospital and Hillmorton Hospital.
Hospital is often an unfamiliar environment for both children and adults. Separation from home and family adds to the trauma of treatment as most of the admissions are unplanned. Some children experience repeat visits which may adversely impact on their development.
Friends of Children in Hospital support the child and family during admission. We are concerned particularly for the physiological and emotional needs arising from hospital visits. We believe that many of there needs can be met through the opportunity to play.
Over the 34 years we have seen many changes to the areas we give money, equipment and toys too, and needs change but essentially we provide what the staff ask for.
You can help Friends of Children in Hospital by:
