A TOP politician has paid a visit to a West Dunbartonshire children’s hospice.

Labour’s Monica Lennon, the MSP for the Central Scotland region and shadow health secretary spoke to children and their families at Robin House in Balloch, a facility run by charity Children’s Hospices Across Scotland (CHAS).

One of two hospices in Scotland – along with Rachel House in Kinross – Robin House staff and volunteers endeavour to make the end of a child’s life as joyous as possible.

During her visit, Ms Lennon spoke to families of children in the hospice, as well as engaging with staff and volunteers about some of their experiences dealing with youngsters who are in poor health.

Ms Lennon said: “I’d like to thank CHAS for their invitation to visit Robin House during Children’s Hospice Week, and for the opportunity to learn more about what they do.

“It was clear to me that the work that CHAS do is phenomenal, providing vital support and comfort to children and their families at one of the most difficult periods of their life.

“I’ll continue do all I can to support and promote the work of CHAS in Parliament and beyond, to ensure that they get the support and resources they need to continue to carry out their important role in supporting families.

CHAS chief executive Maria McGill, said: “Robin House is a place that is full of love and joy, so I am absolutely delighted to welcome Monica to meet with families, staff and volunteers.

“CHAS supports many of the children in Scotland who die young, and their siblings and families, at the hardest of times.

“We can only do that because of the generosity and kindness of so many supporters and volunteers. Robin House allows families to create precious memories and puts the biggest smiles on children’s faces - moments of joy that families can remember forever.”

Last year, CHAS helped youngsters with life shortening conditions to spend 4,600 bed nights in Robin and Rachel House, as well as helping siblings, parents, carers and other family members spend 7,600 bed nights in the facilities with the kids.