FAQs
Whether it’s your first visit or one of many, coming to hospital can feel like a lot. You don’t have to figure it all out on your own. We’ll be here every step of the way.
Quick links
Did you know you can get financial support?
Families can claim up to £8.50 per day through the Young Patients Family Fund (YPFF) to help with costs during their stay.
Find out more about the Young Patients Family Fund and how to make a claim, or get in touch if you need any help.
Call or text 07594 090 720 or email hub@echcharity.org.
Before you arrive
Where is the hospital and how do I get there?
The Royal Hospital for Children and Young People is based at Little France in Edinburgh. You can get here by car, bus or taxi, and there’s parking available on site.
If getting here feels tricky or stressful, speak to your care team – there may be support available to help you plan your journey.
You can also download the Waymap app to guide you straight to where you need to be.
What should I bring with me?
Every visit is different, but a few things can help you feel more comfortable:
- Comfortable clothes (for you and your child)
- Any medications or medical documents
- Snacks or familiar items from home (a favourite toy, blanket, book)
- Phone chargers and essentials if you might be here a while
And if you forget something? Don’t worry – we’ve got you! See what emergency supplies are available.
Will I be able to stay with my child?
In most cases, yes. Each inpatient bed space has a pull-down bed, allowing one parent or carer to stay overnight with their child.
Unfortunately, this isn’t possible on every ward. Overnight stays are not available on Melville or the Paediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU).
If you need to stay longer, or you’re travelling from further away, free accommodation may be available nearby so you can stay close to your child.
What happens when we get there?
Your appointment letter will let you know where you need to go. If you’re unsure, you can always ask at reception in the Atrium.
You can also download the Waymap app to guide you straight to where you need to be.
You’ll see our ECHC team around the building. You’ll recognise us from our red t-shirts! We’re here to support you and your family. Please just say hello.
While you're here
What support is available for families?
There’s lots of support here to help make things feel more manageable. That might include:
- Emotional and wellbeing support for all ages
- Help with practical things and everyday essentials
- Somewhere to sit, talk or just take a breather
- The chance to connect with other families who understand what you’re going through
Our Family Support Team is here to walk alongside you through it all. Text/call 07594 090 720.
What is there for children to do?
Being in hospital doesn’t mean everything stops.
We run a whole programme of activities to bring moments of fun and distraction – whether that’s music, dancing, storytelling or getting creative.
It’s all about helping children to still be children, and feel like themselves, even on the tough days.
Can siblings or other family members be involved?
Absolutely. Hospital affects the whole family, and support is here for all of you. Our Hub is a welcoming, non-clinical space where families, including siblings, aunties, grandparents etc, can spend time together away from the wards.
Is there somewhere to take a break?
Yes. And sometimes that’s exactly what you need.
The hospital has spaces designed just for families – including our Hub, a safe space where you have a cup of tea (or hot chocolate!) and take a breather from the ward.
Who can I talk to if I’m feeling worried or overwhelmed?
If you’re feeling like this – you’re not alone.
Our Family Support Team is here to listen, support and guide you through anything you might be dealing with – practical or emotional. We can help with forms, signpost to other services, or just be there as a listening ear when things feel too much.
What if I need something I didn’t bring?
Please just ask.
We can help with essentials like clothing, toiletries or basic items, so if something’s been forgotten, it’s one less thing to worry about.
Pop down to see us in the Family Support Corridor (ground floor, through Outpatients) or text/call us on 07594 090 720.
Looking ahead
Will there be support after we leave hospital?
Yes. Support doesn’t always end when you go home.
The team can help connect you to services, advice and support in your community, so you feel less alone after your hospital visit.
Still have questions?
It’s completely okay not to have all the answers.
When you arrive, you can:
- Speak to your child’s care team
- Visit the Hub
- Or chat to the ECHC team
We’re here to help make things feel a little less daunting – for you and your child.
You’ll find us in the Family Support Corridor on the ground floor (through Outpatients). Just ask at the ECHC shop if you’re unsure and they’ll point you in the right direction.
You can also text/call our Family Support Team at any time on 07594 090 720.