The State’s first children’s hospice is to be established to provide care and support for children with life-limiting conditions and their families.
The hospice will support children from early diagnosis, during the treatment of their condition, through to end of life with support in bereavement.
The hospice will be delivered in partnership with Perth Children’s Hospital Foundation (PCHF) and the Child and Adolescent Health Service (CAHS), and will provide specialist respite and palliative care for children aged up to 18 years.
Minister for Health, Roger Cook said about 2,000 Western Australian children had a life-limiting illness and they and their families would benefit from a multidisciplinary approach to support them to live as well as possible.
“A preferred site in Swanbourne has been identified, with discussions in the initial stages,” Mr Cook said.
“This important development is also in line with Sustainable Health Review Recommendation Nine: ‘achieve respectful and appropriate end of life care and choices’.”
He said the hospice would focus on providing the best quality of life through a holistic approach which supported the physical, emotional, social and spiritual aspects of the child and their family.
“We look forward to providing a home away from home for these families to feel safe and supported, and to provide choice in their decision-making, so they can celebrate their precious child’s life — no matter how long or short it may be,” Mr Cook said.