We’re proud to award £1,000 from our Bright Futures Fund to the incredible charity Hearts & Minds, supporting their Clowndoctors in the Classroom programme.
Thanks to funding from the Scottish Children's Lottery, and funding partners The Scotto and Jackpot Community Trust, this pioneering initiative is reaching children with complex additional support needs at four specialist schools across Scotland, bringing joy, connection, and confidence through therapeutic clowning.
From music and puppetry to gentle silliness and sensory play, Clowndoctors tailor each visit to meet the unique needs of every child. With regular sessions, they build trust, encourage communication, and open up new ways to engage with the world around them, all in line with the Scottish Government’s GIRFEC and Curriculum for Excellence approaches.
“Some children light up with laughter, some find new ways to communicate, and others discover confidence they didn’t know they had.”
Whether working one-on-one or with whole classes, the Clowndoctors help make learning feel safe, personal, and full of possibility.
To everyone who plays the Scottish Children’s Lottery, thank you for helping us put smiles where they’re most needed.
Thank you to everyone who plays the Scottish Children’s Lottery for helping to make support like this possible.
