
Red visits the hospital
Ross Collins
Red Visits the Hospital is a free book to support children visiting the Glasgow Children's Hospital. The story follows Red, a young squirrel who wakes up one morning to discover that her tail is covered in spots. To find out what's wrong and get the care she needs, Red embarks on a journey to the hospital-an experience filled with warmth, kindness, and reassurance. Published by Glasgow Children's Hospital Charity, Red Visits the Hospital has been carefully tailored to reflect recognisable features of the Royal Hospital for Children in Glasgow. By doing so, it aims to reduce anxiety and help young patients understand what to expect during their hospital visit in a comforting and supportive way.
"My son was treated at the Glasgow Children's Hospital and I'd always wanted to do something to pay back the care and kindness he received. I jumped at the chance to do this book!
"The good people at the charity told me of the concerns some children feel when visiting the hospital for the first time. I then got to tour and draw all the places that young patients may find themselves. Together with the charity we then created Red and her story. Drawing real places in a picture book was a first for me and I loved the challenge. The whole project has honestly been a joy for me and one that I'm exceptionally proud of.
"I really hope this book will find itself in the paws of hundreds of little nervous squirrels and put their mind to rest about visiting this wonderful place. I also hope that Red's adventures won't end here, that I can continue my relationship with the hospital and together we can share the magic of books with many little patients in the future."
Ross Collins




Working in collaboration with the NHS, local paediatric clinics, and schools and nurseries, Glasgow Children's Hospital Charity will distribute Red Visits the Hospital to children in the community who may visit the hospital, ensuring that they will feel better prepared and at ease during their visit. Copies can also be requested directly by contacting the charity ahead of a child's hospital appointment on social media, or by emailing info@glasgowchildrenshospitalcharity.org
About Glasgow Children's Hospital Charity
We believe that Glasgow belongs with the great children's hospitals of the world. Every day, 500 children from across Scotland receive life-changing care behind its doors. Glasgow Children's Hospital Charity is the driving force behind many of the innovative projects and services that make the children's hospital such a pioneering place. Whether children are in hospital for long-term treatment of conditions such as cancer or kidney failure, or arrive in an emergency, Glasgow Children's Hospital Charity promises to be by their side throughout their hospital journey. For more information, visit www.glasgowchildrenshospitalcharity.org