You can help us open up Communications for Sick Kids
Using the computer is not only second nature to our children these days but it is also part of their education. Even the youngest can play with jigsaws and puzzles and learn while they are having fun. As they get older it features even more in their school life, seeking out information and in their social lives too. It is a vital communication tool for them and their families and presently when children and young people come to the hospital they can only access the Internet in the Drop In Centre.
This year we would like to organise internet access for the patients on all our wards in the hospital, in both the playrooms and also in some of the cubicles and beside some of the beds. This will help to keep them amused and entertained, keep in touch with friends and keep up with schoolwork. It really will make life so much better for them at the hospital.
Of course it is not that simple. We need to be sure that our children are safe and that they are not accessing information which is not appropriate to their age. So we will have to set up a very special intranet, which will build on our existing KIDsnet to which there is currently no external access. It will take time, there will be a lot of work involved and there will be an ongoing cost to ensure that the network is kept safe at all times.
We need to replace all the computers, set up a server, install more ports, purchase software, carry out the installation including the set up of safety features and then we need to fund the on-going costs of the network which will not be inconsiderable.
But with your help we can maintain children’s educational progress and keep them connected to the outside world when they are spending time in hospital.
Please help us with our Internet Access project and help to make the Sick Kids even better!
Contact maureen.harrison@luht.scot.nhs.uk for more details!
For further information, and to hear about our ongoing work and funding commitments please contact the Sick Kids Friends Foundation on 0131 668 4949
