The Association for the Welfare of Children in Hospital Inc (AWCH) is a voluntary not-for-profit organisation concerned with the emotional and social wellbeing of children in healthcare.
The purpose of the HF program is to lessen fear and anxiety that a child may have about hospitalisation, through education and play so that any unexpected or planned hospitalisation can, ideally, be a happier and less stressful experience.
Since AWCH commenced this unique concept in 1983, it has grown to be a valuable and popular addition to the school curriculum. Research has shown that a significant number of young children experience hospitalisation unexpectedly. The stress of this situation can have immediate and/or long-lasting side effects.