Delemere, Emma and Guerin, Suzanne and Kiernan, Gemma and Kinsella, Eimear and Gitonga, Isaiah and Maguire, Rebecca (2022) Perceived impacts of a therapeutic recreation based hospital outreach programme (HOP) for children with chronic or severe illness: Qualitative analysis. Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice, 49 (101646). pp. 1-7. ISSN 1744-3881

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Abstract

Abstract Background While Therapeutic Recreation (TR) camp programmes have been extensively analysed, less is known about hospital outreach programmes (HOPs). This study examined parent, volunteer and health care provider (HCP) perceived core features and outcomes of a hospital-based TR programme for children with serious illness. Methods Participants were either 1) a HCP within a hospital setting, 2) a volunteer with HOP, or 3) the parent of a child with serious illness. Semi-structured interviews were completed remotely and analysed using a reflexive thematic approach. Results Nineteen participants (5 parents, 5 HCPs, 9 volunteers) were interviewed. Core features of the HOP included the importance of play as an anchor to the present moment and as a vehicle to challenge and grow, creation of a safe space allowing child and family needs to be met, and meeting families where they are. Perceived outcomes of attending the HOP included changing the focus from being sick to being a child, and developing a sense of solidarity amongst peers for both children and parents. Conclusions These results highlight the important contribution of the HOP in supporting children regain a sense of self that is greater than illness, allowing them to reconnect with their values and express themselves, while supporting growth and self-esteem.

Item Type:	Article
Keywords:	Therapeutic recreation; Children and families; Services; Qualitative; Hospital outreach programme; Chronic illness;
Academic Unit:	Assisting Living & Learning,ALL institute Faculty of Science and Engineering > Psychology Faculty of Science and Engineering > Research Institutes > Human Health Institute
Item ID:	18510
Identification Number:	https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ctcp.2022.101646
Depositing User:	Rebecca Maguire
Date Deposited:	14 May 2024 12:06
Journal or Publication Title:	Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice
Publisher:	Elsevier
Refereed:	Yes
URI:	Publisher
Use Licence:	This item is available under a Creative Commons Attribution Non Commercial Share Alike Licence (CC BY-NC-SA). Details of this licence are available here

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