A first look at Australia’s first ever hospice for young adults, to be built on the Manly Hospital site, has been unveiled today by the NSW Government.
Premier Gladys Berejiklian, Health Minister Brad Hazzard, Member for Manly James Griffin and former NSW Premier Mike Bairdalso launched a community fundraising program for the Adolescent and Young Adult Hospice.
“This will be a purpose-built, first-of-its-kind facility, which will provide 24/7 support to young people and their families,” Ms Berejiklian said.
“The NSW Government will provide $2 million each year to contribute to the operating costs of this revolutionary facility to cater for older teens and young adults from across NSW who suffer a life-limiting illness.”
The hospice will be specifically designed for adolescents and young adults with life-limiting conditions requiring short-term respite care, symptom management or end-of-life care.
It will provide a welcoming environment with a flexible design to suit each individual, be light-filled with easy access to outdoor areas, and have the latest digital technology for connecting with friends and family.
Mr Hazzard said the facility will work closely with Bear Cottage, Manly’s renowned children’s hospice that is also unique to NSW, to assist families caring for young people as they become adults.
“This hospice will fill a much-needed gap for young people who outgrow Bear Cottage or are diagnosed with life-limiting conditions as a young adult,” Mr Hazzard said.
“The NSW Government is committed to providing appropriate palliative care services right across the State and that includes for our young people transitioning from paediatric to adult care.”
On behalf of Rio’s Legacy we were privileged to be at the official launch of Australia’s first ever Young Adult Hospice to be built in Manly for 2020.
Given this, Rio’s Legacy is wanting to help bridge the gap between government funding and the reality of hospice. Further funding is required for this hospice to be completed and our community can help get this building over the line.
Thank you to all who have helped / contributed in getting Rio’s Legacy this far and together we look forward in supporting NSW Government in making the difference.
