The project offers support to children in hospital through specialist arts practitioners

An innovative project which aims to make children in hospital smile has received a funding boost.

Clowndoctors is a specialist arts-in-health programme which operates in hospitals, respite units and special schools across Scotland.

The clowns are specially trained arts practitioners who work closely with the healthcare staff and play specialists to make sure we deliver the appropriate visit for the individual child.

The programme – operated by charity Hearts and Minds – relies on donations and was awarded a £6,000 grant from the Crerar Trust this week.

Phillipa Quinn, fundraising officer for Hearts and Minds, said: "The money will be used to bring smiles to sick and vulnerable children who are isolated by illness. Our clowns ensure happiness and laughter wherever they goes; the Clowndoctors are looking forward to contributing to the 12,000 smiles they deliver each year.”

The trust, which is operated by Crerar Hotels, has awarded £7 million of grants to over 400 organisations during the last 16 years.