Project Play’s plans for child-friendly waiting areas boosted by pedal power

Radiographer Lucy Ratcliff recently got on her bike and cycled from John O’Groats to Land’s End on a 920-mile journey in aid of Project Play. She completed this solo, unsupported ride in 10 days and raised more than £2,300.

The fund-raising team at Project Play aims to improve the medical imaging waiting areas at Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust in Exeter. The aim is to offer bright murals, wall toys and activity sheets that will engage and distract paediatric visitors. “With a range of landscapes from the Arctic to African plains, we want children to go on an adventure through our department and make visiting the different modalities exciting, rather than daunting,” the team says. “We hope this will help take their mind off what could be a very difficult time in their young lives.”

Ratcliff’s cycling challenge was inspired by others such as apprentice Olly, who ran 45 miles in one day from North Devon District Hospital back to the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital and raised almost £1,000. Department assistants Jo, Vi and Dan did a skydive and raised nearly £2,000 and there have been bake sales, silent auctions and cash donations from individuals and businesses.

“We still have a way to go, but are hoping to get started on phase 1 shortly, and we couldn’t have got here without the kindness and generosity of both staff and local businesses,” team Project Play concludes. Donations can be made via the fund-raising page.

Picture: Radiographer Lucy Ratcliff reaches her goal.

See this report on page 15 of the November 2024 issue of RAD Magazine.