For immediate release

BEGINS

SUPPORT FOR FAMILIES DURING CHILDRENS’ HOSPITAL STAYS

Local MSP, Clare Haughey has welcomed new figures from the Scottish Government which show that 400 families whose children are receiving treatment from NHS Lanarkshire, and 3,257 receiving treatment from NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, have received financial support while their children underwent a stay in hospital. 

Through the Young Patients Family Fund, the Scottish Government has provided over £72,000 this financial year to families receiving care from NHS Lanarkshire, and over £1.7m for Greater Glasgow and Clyde where patients from Rutherglen and Cambuslang are often referred.

The Young Patients Family Fund is a Scottish Government scheme which provides financial help for travel, food, and accommodation costs for parents, primary carers, and young siblings who are visiting a young inpatient in hospital. 

Launched by the Scottish Government in 2021, the unique-to-Scotland fund has helped thousands of families through the difficult experience of a young loved one undergoing a long stay in hospital. 

Commenting, Clare Haughey said:

“When a child or young person is in hospital, it can be an incredibly challenging time for them and their family, and anything that we can do to help to reduce this stress is really welcome. 

“Families understandably will want to focus on the health and wellbeing of their child, without any additional worry of the costs around being there for them – and this cash support can be absolutely vital.

“This policy is unique to Scotland, having been in place for five years now, and I am proud that are continuing to support families in their time of need.”

ENDS