Poots launches consultation on children’s palliative care

Health Minister Edwin Poots today launched the public consultation on the final phase in the review of paediatric healthcare services in Northern Ireland.

This phase focuses on the palliative and end-of-life care of children and young people, and how bereaved families are helped to cope with the loss of their child.

The three-phase review as a whole will set out a model for children’s healthcare for the next 10 years.

Commenting on the consultation the Minister said: “Caring for a child with a life-limiting or life-threatening condition presents many challenges for all those involved.

“Those challenges merit special attention within the health and social care structure.

“For that reason, this consultation document sets out 18 recommendations with the ultimate aim of providing high-quality, comprehensive and co-ordinated care and support to these very ill children and their families.”

The Minister concluded: “The physical, emotional and mental well-being of our children is of the utmost importance, and I would urge everyone to play their part in planning for the future of this vital service by studying the consultation document and responding with their views on the recommendations.”

The consultation document and accompanying questionnaire can be accessed at http://www.dhsspsni.gov.uk/current_consultations.htm