- Published:
- Wednesday 6 December 2023
The Allan Labor Government is ensuring Radio Lollipop can continue to brighten the day of kids in hospital, with a grant to the charity to make staying in hospital less scary and more fun.
Minister for Health Mary-Anne Thomas today visited the charity to announce the $150,000 grant, meet the volunteers and kids involved in the radio station and take part in a radio segment.
Operating at Monash Children’s Hospital, Radio Lollipop believes in the healing power of play – providing smiles and laughter to kids at a time when they need it most. Supporting children in hospital, Radio Lollipop delivers comfort, play and entertainment for all kids in hospital.
With one in four children admitted to a hospital before age 14, Radio Lollipop gives young patients a voice during their stay – which unfortunately for some can be recurrent and long.
The radio station entertains children while they are receiving treatment, offering programs that get the kids involved in the broadcast and even gives them a chance to hear their voice on radio.
Alongside crafting activities, games and entertainment, kids can request songs, win prizes, and even host segments on the radio broadcast while they are receiving treatment – giving patients a sense of normality while in hospital.
Delivering on a promise the Labor Government made to Victorians at last year’s election, the grant will allow Radio Lollipop to update its ageing studio and equipment, helping them continue to brighten the lives of kids in hospitals for many years to come.
Founded in the United Kingdom before spreading across the globe, Radio Lollipop is staffed entirely by volunteers and runs a range of program and activities for kids in hospital.
Radio Lollipop’s activities are also a great benefit to the parents of kids in hospital, giving them a helping hand in keeping their kids’ spirits high.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Health Mary-Anne Thomas
“A long stay in hospital can be really challenging for kids and Radio Lollipop does an amazing job brightening up their lives while they get the care they need.”
“By offering a range of activities and ways to get involved in the broadcast, Radio Lollipop is helping kids in hospital get their minds off their illnesses and injuries and giving them a chance to have some fun.”
Quote attributable to Member for Oakleigh Steve Dimopoulos
“In addition to the amazing care and treatment provided at the Monash Children’s Hospital, this unique program ensures we are providing a wide range of support for Oakleigh kids and their families.”
Quote attributable to Member for Southern Metropolitan John Berger
“This program is bringing smiles to kids faces during difficult times for them and their families, this grant means Radio Lollipop can continue operating in our community and helping kids smile for years to come.”