As part of the development funding which I have made available to the North-Western Health Board for hospice and palliative care services, the board has earmarked resources towards the establishment of the bereavement counselling service.
I have been advised by the North-Western Health Board that the recruitment process in respect of the appointment of two bereavement counsellors in Sligo-Leitrim and Donegal is well advanced. The Donegal post is due to be filled in November and the Sligo-Leitrim post will be filled subject to confirmation of a suitable commencement date with the appointee. The post holders will provide a wide range of bereavement counselling services, from acute hospital, to hospice, to community settings.
I understand from the North-Western Health Board that a review of the service, involving all interested parties including the North-West Hospice will be held after one year's operation.