Galway families to benefit as LauraLynn secures full State funding
Landmark Government decision will secure funding for children's hospice services provided through LauraLynn's Ballinasloe hub from 2027.
Families across Galway who rely on specialist children's hospice care are set to benefit from a major Government decision to fully fund LauraLynn's core services from next year.
Minister for Health Jennifer Carroll MacNeill announced on Friday November 6 that Ireland's only children's hospice will move from Section 39 to Section 38 status in 2027, ending its dependence on charitable fundraising to provide essential clinical services.
The total annual funding cost under the new arrangement will be €11.46 million, providing greater financial security and allowing the organisation to plan its services over the longer term.
LauraLynn operates a community-based team in Ballinasloe, providing specialist care to children with life-limiting conditions and their families across Galway, Mayo, Roscommon, Clare, Sligo and North Tipperary.
Its services include nursing care, short breaks, family support, end-of-life care and bereavement support, all provided free of charge.
Galway East Independent TD and Minister of State Seán Canney welcomed the decision.
"This is a very important decision for LauraLynn and, most importantly, for the children and families who rely on its services," he said.
"Moving to Section 38 status will provide the organisation with the financial and workforce stability it needs to plan and provide these essential services into the future."
Until now, LauraLynn has relied heavily on public donations alongside existing HSE funding to provide specialist hospice care to children and families nationwide.
LauraLynn Chief Executive Kerry McLaverty said the announcement marked a major milestone following years of campaigning for sustainable State funding.
"This moment has been many years in the making," she said, acknowledging the families, staff, volunteers and supporters who helped secure the change.
While core hospice services will receive full State funding, LauraLynn said donations will remain important for enhancing family care, developing services and supporting research and innovation.
The decision brings children's hospice care into line with specialist adult hospice services, which have already moved to full State funding.