Motherwell and Wishaw MSP Clare Adamson visited Robin House Children's Hospice to learn more about the vital support provided by Children's Hospices Across Scotland (CHAS). The charity helps youngsters with complex, life-shortening conditions and their families.
Tour and Discussions at Robin House
During her visit to the Balloch facility, Ms Adamson met with Dr Annabel Howell, medical director at CHAS, Ellie Wagstaff, policy and external affairs manager, and members of the CHAS team to discuss the charity's work supporting families across Motherwell and Wishaw, Central Scotland and beyond. Discussions focused on respite care, partnership working with the NHS and local services, and the wide range of support available to children and their families throughout every stage of their journey.
Ms Adamson was also given a tour of Robin House, which provides a welcoming, home-from-home environment where families can enjoy short breaks and day visits. The hospice offers a range of facilities designed to support both care and wellbeing, alongside spaces for relaxation, play, reflection and bereavement support.
CHAS Services and Family Support
CHAS provides care for children and young people from before birth until the age of 21, supporting families in hospices, hospitals and at home. As well as respite care, the charity offers end-of-life care, bereavement support and practical assistance for families, working closely with NHS teams and other local services to ensure seamless, person-centred care. Families can also self-refer directly to CHAS, making it easier to access support when it is needed most.
MSP's Comments on the Visit
Commenting following the visit, Ms Adamson said: "I would like to extend my sincere thanks to everyone at Robin House and Children's Hospices Across Scotland for the warm welcome they gave me and for taking the time to show me the incredible facilities and services they provide. I was moved hearing more about the compassionate, invaluable support CHAS offers to children with life-shortening conditions and their families. Robin House is a truly special place. It provides families with not only expert clinical care, but also the opportunity to spend precious time together in a warm, welcoming and supportive environment."
"The dedication of the staff and volunteers is inspiring, and the difference they make to the lives of so many families cannot be overstated. It was also encouraging to hear about the close partnership working between CHAS, the NHS and other local services to ensure families receive seamless support throughout their journey. I would encourage any family who feels they could benefit from CHAS's services to find out more. Families can refer themselves directly to CHAS, meaning support can be accessed without having to wait for a referral from a healthcare professional. I thank everyone involved at CHAS for the outstanding care, compassion and dignity they provide every single day."
For further information about CHAS and its services, visit their website.
