I am worried about fuel costs

We know that for some parents and carers the costs of driving to hospital can add up because of the cost of fuel. This can be especially challenging if you live a long way from the neonatal unit. Find out more below.

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Young Patients Family Fund

The Young Patients Family Fund is available if you normally live in Scotland and if you are the parent or carer of a baby in neonatal care. It can help help with the costs of travel and food while your baby is in hospital.

You can make a claim as soon as your baby is admitted to the neonatal unit, and you can claim for costs from your time on the unit up to 3 months after your baby is discharged.

The fund is available for all families with anyone under 18 in hospital and has replaced the Neonatal Expenses Fund.

How else can I save money on fuel?

Fuel is expensive but there’s a handy list of tips on how to save fuel on Money Saving Expert. This includes ways to make your car more efficient, and a tool to find the cheapest fuel available.

Hospital accommodation

You might be able to save money by staying at the hospital. Ask about free hospital accommodation for parents of babies who are staying on the neonatal unit. Some hospitals have rooms or accommodation available for parents.

You could try asking a member of staff on the unit - they will be used to these types of questions. If they don't know they may be able to suggest someone who might be able to help.

Public transport

If it’s an option to alternate between driving and using public transport it might be worth giving this a try. You could try working out the different options using Google Maps as this gives you times of travel for both to compare.

Food costs

Some hospitals offer parents vouchers for food, or offer food on the unit. Although it’s only small amounts, you can save money on this and put it towards your fuel.

Need more support?

If you’re still worried about the cost of fuel and want more support, you can get in touch with us..

Do you need help with something else?