Australia’s New South Wales (NSW) Government has announced funding amounting to A$2.8m ($1.77m) to improve paediatric palliative and end-of-life care services in the state.
This funding is part of the state’s four-year commitment to paediatric palliative care, totalling around A$80m, starting from 2023-24 to 2026-27.
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A total of 12 speciality health networks and local health districts in NSW have been granted additional financial support to bolster specialist paediatric palliative care and upgrade the facilities that offer such care.
The funds will be used to create multi-functional spaces that are like homes, serving various needs, including bereavement support, paediatric palliative care, maternity services, and care after death.
Furthermore, the new funding will support initiatives designed to provide families, especially those in rural and regional communities, with access to quality services in a supportive setting.
This move will allow local health districts to improve special care nurseries and paediatric wards through upgrades, renovations, and essential maintenance.
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By GlobalDataIn addition to infrastructure improvements, the funding will cover the purchase of specialised equipment and comfort items to foster family-friendly environments for end-of-life care.
Healthcare staff will also receive education and training to enhance their skills in delivering paediatric palliative care.
Health Minister Ryan Park said: “This funding underscores our commitment to supporting some of the most vulnerable children and their families in NSW.
“Paediatric palliative care is essential for providing comfort and dignity to children with life-limiting conditions and their families.
“Importantly, this funding will allow us to extend and enhance a model of care which provides families with much-needed peace of mind, knowing they can care for their child in a familiar, supportive environment during their final days.”
This announcement follows a recent allocation of A$180,000 by the NSW Government to enhance treatment and support for individuals affected by macular disease.
