The Royal Edinburgh Hospital is a psychiatric hospital in Edinburgh, Scotland. It is operated by the Primary and Community Division of NHS Lothian. It is situated in Morningside Place.[1]
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The Royal Edinburgh Hospital was first established by Doctor Andrew Duncan, following the death of Robert Fergusson, a Scottish poet who died in 1774 following mental health problems caused by a head injury. Duncan wished to establish a hospital where the mentally ill could be humanely looked after. The Hospital first opened in the early 19th century, following fundraising efforts by Duncan, and monies gifted by the British Parliament.
Today the hospital is the main mental health hospital for the Lothian region, and has treatment services for alcohol and drug addiction.
In 2005, NHS Lothian announced plans for a redevelopment of the Royal Edinburgh Hospital site, which would see a new modern hospital built in the grounds.
The Rivers Centre is a clinic, established in 1997, for the treatment of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. It was set up in memory of the pioneering psychiatrist William Rivers (1864-1922).
The 15 tonne granite work Abraham[2] was carved in the grounds of the hospital in 1982 by sculptor Ronald Rae and remains here permanently.