This is my Clowndoctor character, Dr Squash. I work for the arts-in-health charity Hearts and Minds as a therapeutic clown.
As a Clowndoctor with Hearts & Minds for over 15 years, I visit children's hospitals across Scotland (including the Royal Hospital for Children and Young People Edinburgh, Royal Hospital for Children Glasgow, and Ninewells Dundee), as well as respite hospices and schools for children with complex needs.
It's the greatest job in the world. I get to play, improvise, sing, and connect with such incredible young people, families, and healthcare staff. It brings joy, empowerment, and genuine laughter into sterile clinical environments.
Therapeutic clowning is all about empowering the child: letting them take the lead, make the rules, and experience unconditional playful acceptance when they need it most.
