This project was the brainchild of a teenage boy, Rian, who bravely voiced that the traditional children’s hospice environment did not meet his emotional, social, or developmental needs. His leadership inspired a project aimed at discovering what a truly inclusive, teenage-friendly space could look like, one that respects growing independence, identity, and the desire for connection to peers – by involving him directly in the design and decision-making process as an equal partner in two-way, adult conversation.
Aim:
Adolescents and young adults in children’s hospices often find themselves in spaces designed for children, which can lead to feelings of not belonging, disconnection, and a lack of age-appropriate respect. Creating a separate, calm, and relaxed section—protected from the unavoidable noises of
younger children—is essential to foster dignity, autonomy, and emotional well-being. The goal is to ensure care is developmentally appropriate, providing teenagers with the privacy and independence they deserve.
Methods:
A town hall-style meeting was held in the hospice’s activity room, with an open invitation creating a safe space for dialogue. Rian shared his personal experiences and wishes, emphasizing the need to be treated as a young adult rather than a child. His requirements formed the foundation of the project: a dedicated separate space, a height-adjustable dining table, access to a PS5 with personal gaming and Spotify accounts, age-appropriate conversation and communication from staff, and, crucially, on-demand snacks to foster personal decision-making and autonomy.
Results:
Works are ongoing! To date, as a direct result of Rian’s input, a dedicated young adult space has been developed. This area features a PS5 with personal account access and snacks on demand, providing a calmer environment away from the noise of smaller children. Staff have also received guidance on age-appropriate, adult-level communication, helping foster a more empowering atmosphere. This has transformed the room into a haven where teenagers feel seen, heard, and genuinely welcome as independent individuals.
Conclusion:
This project highlights the importance of recognising that teenagers have unique developmental and social needs that differ significantly from younger children. By empowering Rian to lead, the hospice created a space that prioritises privacy, quiet, and independence. The findings underscore the value of co-design and respectful engagement, showing that even small choices- like picking one’s own snacks – make a vital difference. This project sets a powerful example of how hospices can reshape adolescent care to foster resilience, dignity, and a true sense of belonging.
Republished from Ireland’s Children’s Hospice, see the PDF here: Poster Crafting a Sanctuary for Young Adults in a Children’s Hospice – Rian Stack, with thanks.
