When a child is in hospital, the days can feel long, lonely, and isolating. Often a young person stays in hospital for many weeks or even months and during this time families often spend long spells apart which leads to feelings of confusion and upset, especially for siblings. Through our pop-up Jak’s Den activities and emotional support visits, Team Jak brings comfort, fun, and a listening ear to children’s wards in Scotland’s major cities. We help create moments of lightness in otherwise difficult times, and wherever possible we also signpost families to our wider services including music therapy, counselling, and practical support.
Looking for support for your child, family, or want to refer someone you know? Please get in touch today.
Team Jak provides pop-up Jak’s Den activities on Schiehallion ward and during day clinics at Glasgow Royal Hospital for Children, with a strong focus on emotional support for children and carers navigating cancer treatment.
At our Clinic Fun Table, children take part in activities to help…
Distract from medical anxiety
Spark joy through play
Encourage friendships with others on the same journey
Meanwhile, parents are offered time to connect, sharing experiences, offering support, and celebrating milestones together. Our ward visits include:
One-to-one chats
Craft packs, games and fun-filled trolleys
Carer ‘coffee passes’ to give parents a much-needed break.
We also host Mini Denner sessions, bringing movement, and laughter into ward rooms and the playroom, helping children continue their development while in hospital.
When a child is sadly going to pass in hospital, we can provide one of our unique Team Jak Rainbow Carts to make their room feel a little more like home. We can — among other items — supply themed duvets, lights, cushions, snacks, and even a coffee machine.
Team Jak provides pop-up Jak’s Den activities on Lochranza Ward and the day clinic at Edinburgh’s Royal Hospital for Children and Young People every Wednesday. Our Children, Young People & Families team are on hand to bring a sense of normality into hospital life.
Whenever a child or family is referred to us, our support can include:
For children spending their final days in hospital, our specially designed Team Jak Rainbow Carts help bring comfort and familiarity to their room. Each cart is filled with thoughtful touches, from themed bedding, cosy lighting, and soft cushions to favourite snacks and even a coffee machine, creating a warmer, more homely space for them and their loved ones.
Our twice weekly visits to our young people with cancer at the Royal Aberdeen Children’s Hospital include lots of fun distraction activities. We also offer:
We provide emotional, social and practical support to children & young people with cancer, their families, friends and those bereaved
