Since 1970, Children in Hospital Ireland’s team of staff, supporters and volunteers have been playing a major role in initiating and furthering changes in how children are cared for in Irish hospitals.

The Children in Hospital Ireland adventure started in 1969, when the Organisation Mondiale pour l’Education Pre-scolaire (the world organisation for pre-school education) carried out a unique survey in 17 Dublin Hospitals and published a report on visiting hours, accommodation for parents, and educational and play facilities. The report brought to light a number of  important issues relating to these matters.

In response to this report, a group of parents of sick children gathered and started lobbying for the rights of all children to be cared for appropriately and with respect.

Together, they formed the first Irish organisation for the welfare of children in hospital (Association for the Welfare of Children in Hospital Ireland). Within a short period of time, the new charity set up a national program of arts and crafts and play for children in hospital. They also raised the awareness that child patients have specific emotional needs. At the time, very few hospitals recognised the importance of play for children or had appropriate facilities, furniture or specific training for health professionals….