NI Children’s Hospice was delighted to welcome First Minister Michelle O’Neill MLA, John Finucane MP, and Chair of the Assembly’s Health Committee, Philip McGuigan MLA during their recent visit to Horizon House.

During the visit, NI Hospice Chair Ian Sheppard, Chief Executive Trevor McCartney and members of our care team showed the dignitaries around our children’s unit and gardens – spaces designed to provide comfort, care and dignity for the children and families we support every day.

The First Minister also met one of our ‘Little Stars’ – inpatient James, and his family.

Pictured above: The First Minister Michelle O’Neill MLA with James, one of our Little Stars children at Horizon House

Those attending also had a really valuable discussion about the challenges facing hospice services in both our adults’ and children’s units, and the vital role that the NI Hospice plays in supporting families, all the while helping to alleviate pressure on the wider health system.

Hospice’s leadership team was encouraged by the First Minister’s genuine interest, her strong understanding of the issues, and her clear willingness to support our work. These conversations are crucial as we continue to advocate for sustainable funding, recognition of the essential services hospices provide, and for the implementation of the recommendations of the Health Committee’s Inquiry into Palliative Care Services.

We thank the First Minister for taking the time to visit Horizon House and for engaging so positively with our team.

Pictured below: (left) Deputy Head of Children's Hospice Services Sarah Xuereb, who conducted the tour, meets First Minister Michelle O’Neill MLA; and (right) the First Minister with Gemma Aspinall, NI Hospice's Chief Care Officer.

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