Children with serious illnesses experience Edinburgh Zoo through groundbreaking remote-access technology

The Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS) has partnered with UK charity SpecialEffect to deliver an innovative pilot experience that allowed two immunocompromised children to enjoy a personalised, behind-the-scenes visit to Edinburgh Zoo, without leaving hospital or home. 

With the use of a small, remote-controlled AV1 robot, part of SpecialEffect’s pioneering BubbleBusters project, Riley (7) and Josy (5) enjoyed an up-close look at some of the wildlife conservation charity’s animals, while hearing more about their behaviours. Operated via a computer or smartphone, the AV1 becomes the child’s eyes, ears and voice, enabling real-time conversation, movement and exploration in spaces they cannot safely access in person. 

Jaima Smith, community and discovery programme officer at RZSS, said: “Being able to help create such a special day for these children is a huge part of why we do what we do here at RZSS. Hearing their laughter and excitement as they explored the zoo and connected with our animals was truly heartwarming.” 

While BubbleBusters is typically used to help children continue attending school during intensive treatment, this collaboration demonstrates the transformative potential of accessible technology in leisure and play. Critical aspects of wellbeing often missed during prolonged illness. 

Paige Harvey, gaming community manager at SpecialEffect said: “We were thrilled to be able to bring two of our young BubbleBusters to the zoo via accessible technology, highlighting the importance of inclusion while having fun and engaging in a shared love of the natural world. We can’t thank the team at Edinburgh Zoo enough for working with us to help make their dreams come true.” 

Find out more about RZSS’s community engagement work rzss.org.uk/community-engagement