Children & Young People's Services

For families facing the heart-breaking knowledge that they will almost certainly outlive their child; Dougie Mac provide specialist care and support services for children with life-shortening conditions, due to illness or injury, from birth until they no longer need us.

The hospice is designed to provide a safe, home-from-home environment for children, young people and their families.

• Play and activities: The play team ensures that there are always lots of fun things to do, whether it’s one-to-one or in a group, all activities are adapted to enable each service user’s full engagement.
• Short breaks and respite: Whether it’s a few hours, a day, or longer, respite stays at Dougie Mac are often a lifeline for parents and carers. For the children, teenagers or young adults, staying with us can be like a mini-holiday – the chance to meet up with friends and have lots of fun. The team can also care for them in the comfort of their own home, meaning that they’re in an environment they know, while their parents or carers make the most of a few hours off.
• Counselling and support: Dougie Mac’s team of highly trained counsellors and therapists are able to offer each member of the family a wide range of emotional support services. Whether one-on-one or in a group, emotional support will be tailored to each individual’s needs and may include music, art or play alongside more traditional forms of counselling.
  For someone used to being a carer 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days per year,