At the heart of CHI’s work is its play service which is now available to children in hospitals throughout Ireland. CHI is the only charity managing such a voluntary service in Irish hospitals. By providing engaging and supportive play in wards, playrooms, emergency departments and outpatient departments, CHI volunteers nurture curiosity and creativity and provide distraction from the stress of being in hospital.
Did you know?
- Each year in Ireland there are, on average, over 270,000 hospital visits by children!
- For over 100,000 children this means an average of a 3-night stay.
- Every year, 75,000 child inpatients are under 4 years of age and almost all are admitted through A&E – an unexpected and unplanned visit.
CHI is at the forefront:
- promoting the welfare of sick children by drawing attention to their special needs for emotional security
- advocating on behalf of all sick children
- supporting and helping parents before, during and after their child’s stay in hospital
- highlighting the additional needs of sick children to policy and decision makers
- organising hospital play schemes with the help of a group of dedicated volunteers
By browsing through our website, you will learn about all aspects of our work and the services we provide.
If you would like more detailed or specific information about any aspect of our work and services, please contact our dedicated team.
CHI is a registered charity (Charity No. 6632) and is a company limited by guarantee, (Children in Hospital Ireland) registered in Dublin, Ireland. (Company Registration No. 297192)
FOR PARENTS
Children in Hospital Ireland works with families to guide them through difficulties or concerns they may have
FOR CHILDREN
Hospital is a different world, full of new people, smells and sounds. CHI volunteers will help ease this transition
FOR PROFESSIONALS
CHI works collaboratively with health professionals and policy makers to promote the welfare of all sick children.
FOR VOLUNTEERS
The importance of play in the recovery of the hospitalised child is universally recognised. Volunteer today.
