For 20 years, something extraordinary has been happening on the wards of the Freeman Hospital.
Funded by Chuf and delivered in partnership with TIN Arts, the Clown Doctors programme has brought moments of joy, calm and confidence to thousands of Heart Heroes since 2006.
To celebrate 20 years of this incredible programme, we’ve created a series of short films that capture the heart of the Clown Doctors and the difference they make.
Each film shines a light on a different part of the story, from the power of laughter on the ward to the lasting connections formed with familes.
Together, they tell the story of a programme build on compassion, creativity and connection.
Meet the people behind the programme
Clown Doctors are highly skilled performers and trained specialists in hospital clowning.
Their work is guided by one simple principle – every interaction is led by the child.
Whether it’s a quiet moment of reassurance or a burst of silliness in the corridor, their focus is always to meet each child exactly where they are.
The impact of the Clown Doctors through the eyes of families.
For parents and carers, seeing their child in hospital can be incredibly difficult.
Families often tell us that when the Clown Doctors arrive, the atmosphere changes.
These moments help bring out the smiles, laughter and personality that make every Heart Hero who they are.
Supporting Heart Heroes beyond hospital walls.
Leaving hospital can bring relief, but also uncertainty.
Through our Very Special Meetings, the Clown Doctors continue supporting young people once they return home.
These online sessions reconnect Heart Heroes with familiar faces, helping to maintain confidence, reduce anxiety and remind families that they are never alone on their journey.
Because care doesn’t stop when you leave the ward, and neither do we.
Since 2006, the Clown Doctors have supported thousands of children,
young people and families across the North East and beyond.
Their visits bring:
At Chuf, we believe that emotional wellbeing and play are
essential parts of recovery. That’s why the Clown Doctors
remain one of the most important programmes we fund.
To ensure the Clown Doctors can continue bringing joy to Heart Heroes for the next 20 years and beyond, we’ve launched a brand new way to support the programme.
By sponsoring a Clown Doctor, you can help fund the visits, creativity and connection that make this programme so special.
Your support helps bring laughter, comfort and confidence to children in hospital when they need it most.
Businesses can also play a powerful role in supporting the next generation of Heart Heroes.
A gift of £6,000 per year would sponsor a Clown Doctor, helping bring regular visits, creativity and connection to children and families on the ward.
Corporate supporters will receive recognition as proud supporters of the Clown Doctors, helping demonstrate their commitment to children and families across our region.
Children's Heart Unit Fund - Chuf
Designworks Business Centre
William Street
Gateshead
NE10 0JP
Tel: 0191 281 3166
Email: info@chuf.org.uk
Chuf is a registered charity in England and Wales No 1160831 © 2026.
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