Spread a Smile
Spread a Smile brings joy and laughter to seriously ill and hospitalised children and their families during long hospital stays.  Every year we spread smiles to thousands of children and teenagers and their families through our hospital visits, outings and events and art initiatives
Idea for research
Idea for research
Spread a Smile brings joy and laughter to seriously ill and hospitalised children and their families during long hospital stays. Every year, we reach thousands of children and teenagers through hospital visits, virtual visits, family events and art initiatives. We know that our impact is far greater than a smile, as we strive to make a real and positive difference to young lives at the most challenging of times.

While we have anecdotal evidence of the positive effects of our services, we lack a systematic understanding of the real-time impact our visits have on children’s wellbeing. Understanding this will enable us to better demonstrate and enhance the value of our work.

We’re looking for a student to conduct an observational study capturing real-time interactions between Spread a Smile entertainers and children in hospital settings.

Spread a Smile will facilitate DBS clearance and hospital access, with opportunities to work across different units and with both in-person and virtual visit formats.
Impact of idea
This research will provide essential insights into the immediate effects of joy-based interventions on seriously ill children and their families. It will allow us to refine our services, tailor our approach to different hospital environments, and strengthen our evidence base for future partnerships and funding. By sharing findings with hospital partners and organisations in the paediatric care sector, we aim to promote best practice in holistic, family-centred care. Ultimately, this research will help us ensure that every child we reach feels seen, supported, and uplifted, even in the most difficult moments.

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Data generated through this idea

Application process
Application criteria
All students welcome to apply.
DBS needed
Yes
Is this project fully accessible to students with the disabilities?
Yes
Disabilities information
The opportunity will be adapted to accommodate any student accessibility needs.

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