Spotlight on Spread a Smile…

In 2013, Spread a Smile came to life when Josephine Segal noticed how a magician's visit made a world of difference for her nephew, Aaron, who had been feeling down during his treatment at Great Ormond Street Hospital (GOSH).

Josephine arranged for a magician to pay Aaron a visit, and it had a hugely positive impact, lifting his spirits and making his treatment more bearable. Aaron wanted the magician to visit his friends on the ward, but hospital rules wouldn’t allow it. Josephine was determined to find a way to make it happen. Joining forces with her friend and former colleague, Vanessa Crocker, they worked closely with GOSH and set up Spread a Smile.

Word spread, and the demand for their work grew. Fast forward a decade, Spread a Smile brings joy through visits, activities, events, and surprise treats across 27 NHS partner hospitals and three hospices.

Engage first heard of Spread a Smile back in 2019, when they brought lots of smiles to our friend Luke’s face during his time at Great Ormond Street, bringing some light relief during some very dark days.

They are a brilliant charity, run by brilliant people, and we try to support them wherever we can by volunteering at their events, driving awareness and generating much needed resources.

Last week Emily and I volunteered at their annual golf day. It’s always a great day out, and raises lots of funds. We are looking forward to hosting their team at our office later this week, to discuss more ways we can support. If you have any ideas of challenges we can undertake please do get in touch!

For more information on Spread a Smile please click here, and if you’d like to make a donation please click here.