If you thought gaming was just about high scores and epic adventures, think again. Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity has just levelled up patient care by appointing the UK’s first-ever full-time Gamer-in-Residence. This innovative role is set to bring a new kind of healing to young patients through the power of play.
Bringing Player Two to the hospital wards
Imagine being a child in a hospital—scary machines, unfamiliar faces, and a whole lot of waiting around. Now picture having someone whose sole job is to game with you, making those long hours fly by. That’s exactly what Gamer-in-Residence Steven Mair, the 26-year-old pioneering this role, is doing. He’s not just handing out controllers; he’s handing out moments of joy, distraction, and a sense of normality.
“When the Gamer-in-Residence came around to play Mario on the Nintendo, Jace immediately lit up and smiled,” said Catherine Reid, mother of seven-year-old Jace. “It was an instant energy boost for him mentally and physically.” For kids like Jace, who have spent more time in hospital wards than playgrounds, gaming isn’t just a pastime—it’s a lifeline.
More than just fun and games
The Gamer-in-Residence role isn’t about beating the next opponent in EA Sports FC 25 or organising gaming-themed events (though that’s definitely part of it). It’s about reducing feelings of isolation and boredom, providing a much-needed escape from the clinical environment. Studies have shown that gaming can reduce anxiety and even alleviate pain—a bonus level nobody saw coming.
Steven also manages the charity’s gaming volunteers and spearheads fundraising efforts for new equipment. With outdated Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 consoles still in use, there’s a real need for modern gear to keep the kids engaged and entertained.
A community effort worth bragging about
This groundbreaking position was made possible thanks to over £100,000 raised through the Games for the Weans campaign in 2023. Big shout-out to partners like Devolver Digital, Neonhive, and even international support from Child’s Play in the USA, who donated $12,000 for hospital-adapted consoles.
“Thank you to everyone across the gaming community for supporting this unique initiative,” said Kirsten Watson, CEO at Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity. “Not only will your support fund more consoles and games for the children’s hospital, but it now also means Scotland’s young patients will always have a Player Two.”
Kate Ludlow from Devolver Digital added, “We are proud to support Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity in their efforts to offer their young patients the adventures, escapism, and fun that video games provide.”
Level up: How you can get involved
The charity is on the lookout for new streaming partners to hold charity streams for children in hospital. If you’ve ever wanted to game for a good cause, now’s your chance. Funds raised will help young patients continue to enjoy gaming during their hospital stays. For more info, you can contact the Gamer-in-Residence himself at steven.mair@gchc.scot.
Final thoughts
This isn’t just a win for the kids at Glasgow’s Royal Hospital for Children; it’s a game-changer for how we think about patient care. By integrating gaming into the healing process, the hospital is not only keeping up with the times but also recognising the profound impact that games can have on mental and physical well-being.
So, here’s to the Gamer-in-Residence—may your controllers always be charged, and your high scores ever climbing. And to the young patients: game on!
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