Children's Hospice Association Scotland (CHAS)

Purpose

Rachel House and Robin House exist to provide specialist respite, terminal care and bereavement support, for families with a child or young person who is not expected to live into adulthood. They will at all times maintain a clear focus on the individual needs of the sick child, brothers and sisters, parents and other significant family members.

In particular Rachel House and Robin House will:

• Ensure children and families are central in decision making.
• Use a multi disciplinary approach, recognising the physical, emotional, spiritual and social needs of each child and family unit.
• Provide 24 hour support to children and families using them, at the hospice, by telephone, or in the family home.
• Promote a happy and caring environment.
• Ensure the individual preferences of children and families in respect of treatment and intervention are both identified and respected.
• Offer support to the child and family in the time leading up to death and bereavement support thereafter.
• Provide for the individual spiritual and emotional needs of children and families by facilitating contact with local religious leaders, but always recognising individual differences and needs.
• Work closely with other agencies involved in child and family care, promoting the philosophy of Rachel House and Robin House.
• Support staff and volunteers by providing access to continuing education and training and recognising individual needs.