Everton youngsters Jose Baxter and Shane Duffy visited Alder Hey Children’s Hospital this week for the launch of a new health and well-being workshop.
The new scheme will see children and their families take time out from long term medical treatment to enjoy holistic therapies such as hand and head massages and manicures by professional beauticians.
The players met with children who will benefit from the new scheme, which is delivered by Everton in the Community in partnership with Woodlands Spa.
“It was really nice to spend a bit of time here as it's something that we don't do very often," said Duffy.
“We played a few games with the children and joined in with other activities - a bit of arts and crafts and some games. It was nice to get involved and see the smiles on their faces, and to see the work being done here is great.
“It makes you realise how lucky we are to have what we’ve got, but to see such great work being done here is fantastic.”
Baxter and Duffy where joined by Olympic gymnast Beth Tweddle and Everton Ladies goalkeeper Rachel Brown at the event.
Liz Grady, Alder Hey’s Health Promotion Practitioner, added: “Stress among our parents and families can be extremely high during their child’s stay in hospital. The spa day aims to help our patients and their families feel good while improving their mental and physical wellbeing. We look forward to running more ‘Beauty in the Community’ workshops to help families relax and unwind within the hospital setting.”
