Filmmakers from Anglia Ruskin University (ARU) have created a heartwarming video to make visits to Broomfield Hospital in Chelmsford less daunting for young people.
Starring a talented golden retriever named Merlin, plus a few of his canine friends, the short film aims to ease the anxiety of children ahead of their trip to hospital.
Produced by Senior Lecturer Hans Petch and recent BA (Hons) Film and Television Production graduate James Hartley, the film features Merlin explaining each stage of their visit, from the hospital waiting room through to undergoing anaesthesia.
The idea for the film came after Broomfield doctors saw first-hand the impact that Essex Therapy Dogs, including Merlin, were having when they visited patients at the hospital.
Dr Simon Trundle, Consultant in Anaesthesia at Broomfield Hospital, said: “After witnessing the calming, positive effect of Essex Therapy Dogs in our anaesthetic department, we began to wonder if we could do even more to help ease the theatre journey for our younger patients.
“With the brilliant support of Hans Petch and James Hartley from Anglia Ruskin University, we worked together to write a script and produce this video that shares essential information about what to expect in hospital, in a warm, engaging, and child-friendly way.
“We’re now expanding the project to include additional resources, such as a social story and an easy-read storybook, offering different ways for children to connect with the material in whichever way suits them best.
“Our hope is that this initiative will make a meaningful difference to the experience of young patients preparing for surgery at Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust.”
Hans Petch, Senior Lecturer in Film and Television Production at ARU, said: “We set out to make something truly enjoyable and entertaining for young viewers, while incorporating important, educational information. The link to our film is being sent to parents and carers ahead of hospital visits, and knowing that it’s helping to reduce the fears and anxiety of young children is incredibly rewarding.
“I’ve worked with many actors in my career, and I can honestly say that directing Merlin was an absolute delight. Other than the need for regular breaks, he’s also one of the least demanding actors I’ve worked with!”
Merlin’s owner Mandy Johnson, from Essex Therapy Dogs, said: “Watching Merlin work his magic is truly inspiring. His wagging tail, unwavering patience, and kind heart create an environment where children and adults feel safe and supported before and after their procedures – both in real life and now on screen.”
Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust, which runs Broomfield Hospital, plan to formally study the video’s impact by surveying children and parents, and ARU and the Trust are exploring the possibility of making additional films, this time using virtual reality technology.
