Haven for kids: GV Health child play therapist Laura Varapodio, Koala Kids executive director Amanda Mandie, Koala Kids program co-ordinator Jess Bucci, GV Health divisional operations director of women’s, children and surgical Anna McPhillamy and GV Health nurse unit manager, child and adolescent unit, Paula Holland.
Photo by
Lauren Formica
The Child and Adolescent Unit at Goulburn Valley Health has been transformed into a haven of creativity and play, thanks to Koala Kids’ contributions of activities and special treats.
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During their visit to GV Health last week, Koala Kids executive director Amanda Mandie and programs co-ordinator Jess Bucci were impressed by the exceptional services provided and the imaginative, colourful ambiance of the ward.
“We’ve been supporting regional hospitals since 2010 because so many regional families have to come to Melbourne … and we’ve always made it our objective that families can enjoy small things close to home,” Ms Mandie said.
“GV Health would have to have the most beautiful children’s space, apart from the fact that it’s the newest — it is so empathetic for children and for families.”
The non-for-profit organisation develops a range of activities and therapeutic resources for children and young people undergoing treatment in hospital.
Ms Mandie said some items were purely for distraction, some educational and others to supplement programs facilitated by child life, art and music therapists, social workers and other specialists.
GV Health divisional operations director of women’s, children and surgical Anna McPhillamy said Koala Kids’ contribution was essential to the hospital.
She said the resources, which ranged from groceries for families to play equipment for children, eased the financial burden placed on families, eliminating the added stress.
“We want our community to have a place where if you have unwell children, that we’re able to provide everything, and we’ve got great links with the Royal Children’s Hospital to provide care closer to home, which is wonderful,” Ms McPhillamy said.
“Health care has been through a lot over the last few years, and stuff like this helps the work environment for staff. We’re very proud of this, as it is for our community.”
Nurse unit manager, child and adolescent unit, Paula Holland said not only did the items bring joy to patients and their families, but also to GV Health staff.
“The Koala Kids resources are really important to our staff,” she said.
“Christmas time everyone had headbands and it just boosted everyone’s morale, and even being able to give the kids fun little things, it makes the staff feel really good.”
Spreading joy: GV Health child play therapist Laura Varapodio, Koala Kids executive director Amanda Mandie, Koala Kids program co-ordinator Jess Bucci, GV Health divisional operations director of women’s, children and surgical Anna McPhillamy and GV Health nurse unit manager, child and adolescent unit, Paula Holland.
Photo by
Lauren Formica
