HospiEdu
Kórházsuli
Kórházsuli Alapítvány
Evidence of results
Purpose related to Let's Care
Level of Education
Pillars
Brief description of the Project
Duration
Scope
Funds
Objectives
To provide education and emotional support to children and adolescents who are
hospitalised in Hungary. The project is based on the idea that education and emotional
well-being are fundamental to the healing process and quality of life of young patients.
Methodology
The methodology employed by this organisation is based on an integral connection
with families, students recovering both in hospital and at home, and their respective
schools. It seeks to establish a close and collaborative link with all parties involved.
One of the pillars of the methodology is the identification and training of high school
and university student volunteers. These volunteers play an active role in the
programme, providing emotional, educational and social support to students who are
in the process of recovery. Their presence and participation enriches the learning
environment and fosters a trusting relationship between the students.
In addition, joint learning is promoted through the formation of helper-helper pairs.
These pairs consist of a collaboration between recovering students and student
volunteers. Through this interaction, empathy, mutual support and the development of
social and academic skills are fostered.
The programme also works closely with school communities to ensure a smooth
return of students to their regular educational environment. Support and coordination
is provided to ensure a successful transition and continuity in the students' education
during their recovery.
In short, the methodology is based on connection with families, students and schools,
the involvement of student volunteers, joint learning and community support. These
elements combine to create a comprehensive educational and supportive environment
for students in recovery.
Type of Action
Target Group and Determinants attended
Professionals involved
Networking - Actors and Institutions mobilised by the Project
Enablers
The programme has found several key facilitators that have contributed to its successful implementation.
Collaboration with educational institutions has allowed for smooth integration into the school environment
and continuous support. The active involvement of families has strengthened the link between the programme
and the students. In addition, the involvement of university volunteers and secondary school students has
enriched the activities and provided additional support. The availability of adequate resources and funding has
allowed for the effective development of the programme. Finally, community awareness and support has
created a supportive and collaborative environment. Together, these facilitators have provided a solid
framework for the successful implementation of the programme, allowing it to grow and benefit students and
their families.
Barriers
During its implementation, the programme has faced a number of barriers that have challenged its path to success. The
scarcity of financial and material resources has posed limitations, requiring ingenuity and creativity to overcome obstacles.
In addition, resistance to change on the part of some educational and professional institutions has been a challenge that
has required constant persuasion and awareness-raising. The coordination and logistics of activities, especially when
working with multiple schools and families, has required careful planning and communication. Socio-economic barriers and
the impact of the pandemic have also left their mark on the programme. However, despite these difficulties, the
programme has demonstrated resilience, adaptability and commitment, finding creative solutions to support students in
their educational journey.
Grade of linkage with the Safe Education Model
The project focuses on bonding and attachment work, especially in the context of hospitalised children. Recognising the
unique and challenging circumstances faced by these students, the programme strives to create a school environment that
fosters emotional connection, security and trust.
Facilitators and professionals involved in the project understand the importance of building strong, caring relationships
with hospitalised children. Through activities adapted to their situation, they seek to promote emotional closeness and
create a sense of belonging, even in a hospital environment. Strategies and techniques are used that encourage open
communication, mutual support and healthy emotional expression.
In addition, close collaboration is established with medical staff, family members and the school, recognising the
importance of working together to provide the best possible support. Regular meetings and follow-ups are held to
address the emotional and academic needs of the children, and guidance and counselling is provided to families to
strengthen their role in the educational process.
Grade of linkage with the purpose of Let's Care
Kórházsuli (HospiEdu) focuses on educational support for hospitalised children who are unable to attend
school. This involves considering their abilities, limitations and health conditions, and adapting the curriculum
accordingly. Volunteers work closely with medical staff to ensure that students receive the necessary care and
are able to continue their education properly while hospitalised.
In addition, these programmes often strive to create a stimulating and positive learning environment within
the hospital. This may include the incorporation of specialised educational resources, technology, interactive
activities and hands-on experiences. Collaboration with other hospitalised students is also encouraged,
fostering mutual support and social interaction.
In terms of dropout prevention, these programmes seek to maintain educational continuity by ensuring that
students do not fall significantly behind in their studies due to their hospital stay. This may include
coordinating with students' home schools to adapt curricula, conducting regular assessments and establishing
strategies to facilitate transition and re-entry to school after discharge.
Grade of evidence about impact and political relevance
The work of volunteers is closely monitored by the foundation’s management team. University students, who are
volunteering, also act as supporters and quasi-mentors of secondary school volunteers. Regular supervision is also part of
the programme. Each case is discussed by professionals and volunteers on a regular basis.
Success indicators in place are:
• number of children supported
• school success of children participating
• volunteer achievement and experience
• parents’ feedback
Another important element of success is that the programme is based on peer support that provides peer community
experience children with serious illness often lack since they are mostly helped by adults. Success can also be measured in
numbers. Since the start in 2014 the number of both participating children and supporting volunteers has grown, they started with 20 volunteers working with only 4 children. In the school-year of 2018 – 2019, the numbers were 150
children supported by 265.
Grade of evidence about impact - Project deliverables
Reproducibility
Although not specified, the programme has several factors that make it replicable, such as available resources, institutional
support, collaboration between medical staff and education professionals and volunteers, and adaptation to local needs
and regulations. Also, the number of volunteers and children served has grown significantly in recent years, attesting to
the programme's success and replicability.
Outcomes
Accessibility, adaptability, continuity