Scotland’s gaming community has levelled up in a big way, with the Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity introducing the UK’s first-ever full-time Gamer-in-Residence. Thanks to over £100,000 raised by the Games for the Weans campaign in 2023, children in hospital now have a dedicated gaming buddy to brighten their days. The role has been filled by 26-year-old Steven Mair, and he is making a massive difference in young patients’ lives at Glasgow’s Royal Hospital for Children.
In addition to one-on-one gaming sessions, Mair organises events, manages volunteers, and raises funds for new gear, ensuring every young patient gets the opportunity to enjoy their favourite games.
Catherine Reid, whose seven-year-old son Jace has a blood disorder, spoke about the incredible impact the Gamer-in-Residence has had. Jace, who has been gaming since he was old enough to hold a controller, isn’t allowed to attend school or go outside due to his condition. When Steven came to play Super Mario with him, Jace’s spirits lifted instantly. “he immediately lit up and smiled. It was an instant energy boost for him, mentally and physically. In reality, I think often what kids want is some quality time and gaming with new friends,” Reid shared.
There’s science backing the benefits of gaming for hospitalised children. Studies suggest that video games can reduce anxiety and even help with pain management. And thanks to a $12,000 donation from the American charity Child’s Play, outdated consoles will be replaced with modern systems.
The success of this initiative is a testament to the gaming community’s generosity. From charity streams and events like the Dundee Kiltwalk to the first-ever Scottish Games Sale on Steam, gamers across Scotland rallied together to raise the funds needed. Neonhive and SPARCK chipped in with £48,500 worth of in-kind donations, further helping to make this programme a reality.
Kirsten Watson, CEO of the Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity, thanked everyone involved: “Thank you to everyone across the gaming community for supporting this unique initiative to help young patients from across the country game in hospital.”
Devolver Digital also had a hand in the success, with Kate Ludlow from the company’s Spec Ops team stating: “We are proud to support Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity in their efforts to offer their young patients the adventures, escapism, and fun that video games provide. We look forward to continuing support for their Games for the Weans programme.“
It’s amazing to see the gaming community and industry unite to make such a tangible quality of life improvement for children. With the Gamer-in-Residence role, hospital stays don’t have to be a miserable experience; they can be a place to create happy memories, too.
