Hari’s Cart: New charity‑funded initiative brings smiles to children at Pinderfields Hospital
Children being cared for at Pinderfields Hospital are already enjoying brighter, more positive hospital days thanks to the recent launch of Hari’s Cart.
The new charity‑funded initiative aims to support children’s wellbeing through play – offering comfort and distraction to children who may be feeling anxious, bored, in pain or overwhelmed during their hospital stay.
The bright and friendly trolley has been inspired by Hari the Hippo, the MY Hospitals Charity’s much‑loved mascot.
Delivering by a team of trained and friendly volunteers, known as Hari’s Helpers, it is filled with books, toys and sensory activities.
By offering these activities at the bedside, Hari’s Cart encourages positive interaction, supports emotional resilience, and helps children to feel more in control during their time at the hospital.
Keith Ramsay, chair of Mid Yorkshire Teaching NHS Trust and MY Hospitals Charity, said: “We are incredibly proud to see Hari’s Cart up and running on our children’s wards.
"Filled with books, toys and sensory activities, the Cart is already helping to create calmer, more positive experiences for children and their families at a time when they need it most. It’s a wonderful example of how charitable support can make a real difference to patient experience.”
Thanks to the generosity of supporters and volunteers, Hari’s Cart is already helping to turn difficult hospital days into moments of comfort, laughter and happy memories for local children.
Now, MY Hospitals Charity is encouraging the local community to continue supporting the initative so it can continuously be replenished and bring smiles to even more children.
To find out more, or to donate, visit: www.myhospitalscharity.org/donate.