Can handcrafted comfort items really make a meaningful difference to health care?

Our research is going to find out.

CHS researchers in partnership with Good Omen Goodeze (GOG) and the University of Canberra will be taking a deep dive into the impact of GOG items (as they're affectionately called) across CHS.

For years, GOG volunteers have crafted donated sensory toys, goodie dolls, pillows, blankets and other soft items to support patient comfort and wellbeing. These items help to reduce stress, anxiety and discomfort and the best bit is, they're non-pharmacological (with no known side effects).

Now, for the first time, our researchers will explore:

• how patients, families and carers experience GOG items
• how staff observe their use and impact in clinical settings
• where these items are being used and most valued across CHS and ACT Ambulance Service

To get this information, the GOGs will have a QR code tag attached that will take patients, families, carers and staff to the survey.

“Patients and families already tell us these items matter to them and it’s this project that will capture the evidence.”

Leah Mathews - Director of Consumer, Carer, and Community Partnerships in Research and Education, CHS

This project reflects perfectly CHS’s commitment to partnering with consumers and carers and showcases our collaborative approach to research.

“We know Good Omen Goodeze is proud to see its grassroots work contributing to formal health research in our community, and we’re excited to be teaming up with the University of Canberra, who bring independent research expertise to the study design and analysis.”

Leah Mathews - Director of Consumer, Carer, and Community Partnerships in Research and Education, CHS

What can you do?

If you spot a new QR code tag on a GOG item, scan it and complete the short survey.

If you have a story you would like to share, get in touch.