A new charity, Bridge the Gap (BtG), is working to improve facilities and support in the Isle of Man for teenagers and young people with complex, chronic and life-threatening conditions. The charity has announced a bold new initiative to provide a Pod and Hospital Based Youth Worker (HBYW) at Noble’s Hospital.
BtG spokesperson, Fiona Barker, said: “When BtG first approached Noble’s Hospital and the Youth Service with the proposition of funding this innovative project, we had hoped that a room could be found within Noble’s, which could be equipped to create an age appropriate environment for teenage and young adult patients.”
Unfortunately following a lengthy search no room was found but an exciting solution has been agreed. BtG will gift a facility, which has become known as ‘The Pod’, to be built within one of the hospital’s existing courtyards.
BtG hope that by providing a great facility that young people will visit the Pod when at Noble’s for scans/blood tests etc. and that the youth worker can become a link to help them feel less isolated by their condition.
Mike Quinn, Interim Director of Hospital Services, said: “We’re very grateful to Bridge the Gap for leading this initiative. The Pod will offer a unique space for teenage patients, giving them the chance to get away from a hospital environment during any visits or stays at Noble’s. A Hospital Based Youth Worker would represents a progressive step, enhancing the specialist support available to children and young people who need hospital care.”
Unwell young people often face repeated or extended inpatient stays and the charity plans to provide a relaxing environment, where they can meet with a youth worker, enjoy crafts, games, catch up on school work or simply watch TV; an environment far removed from that of a clinical ward.
Ken Callister, Principal Youth Officer with the Department of Education and Children said: “The Youth Service is committed to improving the social and emotional wellbeing of young people and for those with long term medical conditions this is especially important. Bridge the Gap has identified a very important need and between us all we have the chance to make a real difference.”
The cost of ‘The Pod’ is expected to be in the region of ?50,000 so fundraising has begun in earnest. If funds allow BtG would also like to develop a peaceful space within the courtyard.
If you are able to support this project in any way, please email contact@bridgethegap.im.
The Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/bridgethegapIOM/ is kept updated regularly as is the website www.bridgthegap.im.
