County Durham and Darlington Play Specialist Wins National Award for Transforming Children’s Care
Leanne Gowland works in the Trust’s Children’s Bladder and Bowel Service, supporting children and young people aged three to 19 with continence challenges. She uses creative play techniques, including preparation, distraction, and sensory activities, to reduce anxiety, build confidence, and improve children’s healthcare experiences at home, in school, and on hospital wards. By working closely with families, schools, and clinical teams, Leanne ensures children receive joined-up care that is both coordinated and supportive.
Leanne, who has been a Health Play Specialist for over 20 years, joined the specialist bladder and bowel team in 2022 and has played a pioneering role in developing the service. Working alongside colleague Ann Bainbridge and the wider nursing team, she provides tailored support and education to children and their families across the county.
Her work has been described by colleagues as making a “profound difference” to children’s lives, preventing hospital admissions and protecting mental health. Demand for the service has risen sharply in recent years, with referrals increasing since the pandemic.
The Trust recently hosted a local awards ceremony at Darlington Memorial Hospital, where Leanne was presented with her award ahead of a more formal national ceremony in London later this year.
Joanne Carr, Children and Young Peoples Bladder and Bowel Service Lead Nurse, said:
“This was a new role in our service and Leanne brought a wealth of experience and is an integral part of our team. Her knowledge and experience of working with children through play is amazing. She continues to develop this role within the service and supports the development of other trainee play specialists. I am amazed by the use of play and ideas regarding issues such as delayed toilet training, compliance with medication and fluid intake. It makes such a difference to the children we see.”
Leanne, who also mentors trainee play specialists, said she was “grateful and humbled” by the award:
“It feels a little surreal, but I’m so thankful to work with such a fantastic team. For me it’s all about helping children live as fully as possible – if play, structure, and support can open those doors, that’s what I’ll keep doing.”
The Starlight Play in Healthcare Awards celebrate outstanding use of play to reduce fear, pain, and trauma for children receiving medical care.