Making hospital visits easier for patients and families at the Royal Hospital for Children

At the Royal Hospital for Children (RHC) in Glasgow, one of the UK’s leading centres for paediatric care, the focus goes far beyond medical treatment. The hospital is setting a national example in family-centred care, ensuring that every child and young person feels safe, supported, and understood throughout their healthcare journey.

During a recent visit, NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde Chief Executive Professor Jann Gardner explored how the RHC is transforming the hospital experience for children and their families, from the moment they walk through the doors to the time they head home.

One of the first places many families visit is the beloved Teddy Hospital. This unique space helps children prepare for medical procedures through play. Here, young patients can explore medical equipment, hear the sounds of an MRI machine, and learn what it means to be “put to sleep” for surgery, all in a calm, friendly environment.

This approach is especially helpful for children with autism or other neurodiverse conditions, making the hospital feel less intimidating. Open seven days a week, the Teddy Hospital is a cornerstone of the RHC experience and is gaining national attention for its innovative approach.

In the Theatres department, Professor Gardner met with Anaesthetist Dr Alyson Walker and Theatre Coordinator Angie McLean, who shared how they’ve created a compassionate and calming environment for children undergoing surgery.

Each anaesthetic room is themed with different animals, and colourful artwork, based on real stories from patients and families, guides children through their journey. The team is also exploring new ways to use lighting and sound to help children feel even more at ease, particularly those with sensory sensitivities.

The Outpatient Department (OPD) is another area where creativity and care come together. Lead Nurse Janice Heggie and OPD Manager Mhairi Stirrit shared how the department was designed in collaboration with the Glasgow Science Centre to be both educational and engaging.

Plans are underway to introduce new sensory and immersive technologies to better support neurodiverse patients, ensuring that every child receives care tailored to their needs.

The final stop on Professor Gardner’s visit was the hospital’s very own Medicinema—a fully equipped cinema where children can watch the latest films in a fun, inclusive setting. Whether attending as an outpatient or staying in the hospital, children can enjoy movie screenings with their families, sometimes even celebrating birthdays or meeting their favourite football players.

This special space, created in partnership with the Medicinema charity, brings joy and a sense of normality to children facing serious health challenges.

The Royal Hospital for Children continues to lead the way in delivering outstanding, patient-centred care. With services like the Teddy Hospital, themed Theatres, interactive Outpatient areas, and the Medicinema, the hospital is committed to making every visit as positive and comforting as possible, for both children and their families.

If you’re visiting the RHC, know that you’re stepping into a place where your child’s emotional wellbeing is just as important as their physical health.