Dave Thompson MSP

Dave Thompson MSP for the Highlands and Islands showed his support for the Children’s Hospice Association Scotland (CHAS) when he visited an exhibition showcasing the work of the charity in the Scottish Parliament.

Dave Thompson spent time speaking to CHAS staff (see picture attached below) and learning more about the charity, which provides the only hospice services for children, young people and their families, throughout Scotland.

He took time out to visit the charity's staff after learning about their work during his recent fact-finding visits to the Rachel House Hospice in Kinross, the Robin House Hospice in Balloch and the CHAS offices in Inverness.

Mr Thompson said: “I am happy to give my support to CHAS, given the wonderful work that they do.

"Many children and young people suffering from life-harming conditions are supported and helped by CHAS, as are their families.

"The help and support offered by CHAS is unique and delivered with care and with love.

"My hope is that, in the future, CHAS is able to offer support to more children and young people and their families; making their conditions more manageable and supporting families in their time of need.

Marian Keogh, Chief Executive for CHAS said, “This is the second year running that CHAS has been invited to hold an exhibition at the Scottish Parliament. It is an excellent opportunity for us to reach out to some very influential decision-makers within the Scottish Parliament and tell them about the vital hospice services we provide to families across Scotland.

For further information on CHAS visit www.chas.org.uk

Notes:

Children’s Hospice Association Scotland (CHAS) is a Scottish charity established to provide hospice services in Scotland for children and young people with life-limiting conditions.

A children’s hospice offers professional care, practical help and emotional support to the whole family usually from the day of acceptance, to the death of their child, and beyond.

Rachel House in Kinross, Scotland’s first children’s hospice, opened in March 1996. Robin House in Balloch opened in August 2005. Both hospices are purpose-built and each can provide ongoing support for up to 200 families across Scotland each year. The CHAS at Home Team offers support to families across Scotland by providing a home care service to families in their own homes when they need it.