A cacophony of beeping machines and hushed whispers. That’s how it often sounds at the Royal Hospital for Children and Young People & DCN. The Royal Hospital for Children and Young People & DCN stands as a beacon of hope in Edinburgh’s Little France. It replaced the older Royal Hospital for Sick Children, affectionately known as the “Sick Kids,” located in Sciennes. This state-of-the-art facility, part of the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh campus, opened its doors on March 23, 2021. The Royal Hospital for Children and Young People & DCN serves children and young people up to around 16 years old. It’s managed by NHS Lothian and provides a wide array of pediatric healthcare services.
The journey to this modern marvel began in 2005 when NHS Lothian conceived the idea of relocating the Sick Kids. The Scottish Government approved the business case in 2012, and construction commenced in 2015. The building process, undertaken by Brookfield Multiplex, faced several hurdles, including adverse weather and administrative challenges, delaying the initial opening. The cost of construction was estimated at £150 million. The project also faced significant challenges in 2019, just weeks before its intended opening. Faults in the air conditioning and drainage systems were discovered, requiring an estimated additional £90 million to rectify. Despite these setbacks, the Royal Hospital for Children and Young People & DCN persevered. It now boasts cutting-edge technology and a warm, welcoming environment designed with children in mind.
The hospital houses 233 beds and provides a comprehensive range of services. It includes a dedicated Children’s Emergency Department conveniently located next to the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh’s Adult Emergency Department. This thoughtful placement minimizes the need for transfers between hospitals in emergencies. The Royal Hospital for Children and Young People & DCN also incorporates the Department of Clinical Neurosciences, transferred from the Western General Hospital. Additionally, it houses the Department of Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service (CAMHS), previously located at the Royal Edinburgh Hospital. This consolidation of services creates a centralized hub for comprehensive pediatric care. The hospital’s commitment to patient and family well-being extends beyond medical services. It features outdoor play areas, art installations, and bedside entertainment. These features are part of a £5 million Art and Therapeutic Design program funded by the Edinburgh Children’s Hospital Charity and the Edinburgh and Lothians Health Foundation. These amenities create a positive and engaging atmosphere, helping young patients feel more at ease during their stay. The Royal Hospital for Children and Young People & DCN embodies a modern approach to pediatric healthcare. It stands as a testament to resilience, innovation, and a commitment to providing the best possible care for the children and young people of Lothian and beyond.