LauraLynn Children's Hospice secures full State funding in major milestone
The LauraLynn Children’s Hospice is set to become fully state-funded, the Government have confirmed.
The Government have announced the redesignation of LauraLynn Children’s Hospice from Section 39 to Section 38 under the Health Act 2004; this will mean the hospice will be fully state-funded.
The benefits of the redesignation include universal access to palliative care, securing the long-term sustainability of the Children’s Hospice and supporting workforce planning and service development.
The only children's hospice in the country, LauraLynn helps support children and families through hospice, home-based care and community care.
Their services are important for reducing hospital admissions and provide an alternative to prolonged hospital stays for children with complex needs. The government have pledged €11 million in 2027 to support the changes.
Martina Queally, Regional Executive Officer of the HSE Dublin and South East, said: “We are delighted to see LauraLynn achieve Section 38 status. This important milestone recognises the exceptional care, leadership and dedication that have made LauraLynn a trusted and valued service for children and their families across Ireland. It provides a strong foundation for the future sustainability and development of these vital services.
“We look forward to continuing our close partnership with CEO Kerry McLaverty, the Board of Directors and the entire LauraLynn team as they build on this success and further extend their reach and impact for children and their families.”
CEO of LauraLynn, Kerry McLaverty, added: “This is a hugely significant milestone for LauraLynn, for children and families, and for children’s palliative care in Ireland. The redesignation of LauraLynn recognises children’s hospice and palliative care as an essential part of our health service and provides a stronger, more sustainable foundation for the current services children and families rely on.
‘‘This moment has been many years in the making, and I want to acknowledge the families, staff, volunteers, supporters, Board members and partners whose commitment has helped bring us to this point.
“We are also deeply grateful to the donors and communities who have stood alongside LauraLynn throughout our journey. Their generosity will continue to play a vital role in helping us enhance and develop our service so that every child and family that needs our specialist care can access it.”