Hospital Amic (Hospital Friend) is the first of its kind in Spain, covering all of the emotional distraction activities carried out at the Hospital. It has two main objectives: to make our patients’ experience as positive as possible, as well as to comply with the European Association for Children in Hospital’s charter on children's rights.
Hospital clowns: laughter is the best medicine
Whether in the Day Hospital, in the private rooms, in the Mental Health building, or even in theatre. The Pallapupas are all over the Hospital so that every one of our little heroes can feel the benefits that laughter brings. They are real performers, with specific healthcare training that allows them to work in hospital environments.
Volunteers: the time you donate is priceless
In their colourful jackets, they freely give their time to bring a more human touch to the hospital environment. Around 200 volunteers help entertain our patients with drawings and games, helping to look after them if their parents need some time to rest, helping out at the small shop and providing company to those who are going through a very emotionally stressful time. Plus, thanks to a group of volunteer taxi drivers, patients with severe mobility issues can be transferred to and from the Hospital.
Music therapy and song workshop: the power of music
The music therapists from the Ressò Association share the benefits of music with all of our patients. With their cart filled with musical instruments, they visit patients’ rooms, organise concerts and create sounds, rhythms and melodies to help make hospital stays more enjoyable.
Song has a relaxing effect and helps all mental health patients channel their emotions much better. Plus, thanks to the academic background of the therapists, patients learn a lot about musical culture, allowing them to discover a real craft.
Dog-assisted interventions: a team that touches where no human can
Pimba, Sopa, Nina, Poma, Sugus, Lluna and eleven other members make up the gang of furry friends for our patients. All of these dogs are trained by CTAC, an organisation with over 15 years of experience in the field of dog-assisted interventions. These four-legged friends bring smiles and relaxation, raise spirits, and often seem to understand children better than adults do. Along with their trainers and our staff members, the animals help patients tackle every challenge that that they face due to their illness.
Creative arts: freeing emotions through art and creation
Some emotions are always difficult to express in words. That is why the therapists at the art workshop try to get a glimpse into the mind of the child through various artistic disciplines, helping them to overcome their internal struggles and come out stronger.
Hospital Amic in numbers
Expressive art
Hospital clowns
Music therapy
in individual dog-assisted interventions
2024