More than 2000 children enjoy movie magic at Glasgow hospital

Movie magic has been cast over Glasgow's largest children's hospital providing joy to more than 2000 patients and their families.

This comes as Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity has revealed it will extend the funding for its much-loved MediCinema for another year.

In the last year, Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity has provided £55,000 to ensure the continued operation of the MediCinema at the Royal Hospital for Children.

The donation allowed the hospital to host two special screenings for sick children every week throughout 2024.

This means that kids who are suffering from long-term health conditions will not have to miss out on their favourite films such as The Super Mario Bros Movie, Elemental, and Wonka.

Just last year, visitors included 179 wheelchair-user patients while 45 children were able to experience a movie night from their hospital beds.

The charity also caters to each patient's unique needs, offering personal screenings and in-room Disney+ subscriptions for those who wish to watch in private.

The funding is made possible by the fundraising efforts of several supporters like the Donna Miller Foundation.

Kirsten Watson, CEO at Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity, said: "Over 20 years since the first MediCinema in Glasgow opened at the former Yorkhill hospital, it is thanks to our incredible supporters that children in hospital can still be transported into the world of film, providing an environment to relax and be entertained during a long stay on the wards.

"We are delighted to continue to fund the MediCinema and work with our friends at the MediCinema charity for another year."

A survey by MediCinema found that over 90 per cent of attendees believe going to the cinema reduced their stress and anxiety levels and supported their mental health while more than half reported experiencing less physical pain.

Colin Lawrence, CEO at MediCinema, said: "We are so grateful for the ongoing support of Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity.

"It’s thanks to them and their supporters that we are able to run our services for children, making a positive and lasting impact and giving them and their families the strength to cope at challenging times."