Tullamore launch for new directory on end-of-life care in the Midlands
The Midlands Dying Well group has launched a new resource directory designed to support healthcare workers, individuals, families and communities in navigating palliative care, death, and bereavement.
The resource was officially launched today (Monday) during Palliative Care Week at Tullamore Primary Care Centre.
A press statement issued by the HSE said the launch "highlighted the collaborative work taking place across acute hospitals, community services, residential care settings, mental health services and disability services throughout the Midlands".
It said the directory was developed in response to the findings of a national end-of-life survey undertaken by HIQA in 2024, and a subsequent learning and development needs analysis undertaken by the Midlands Dying Well Group.
In response, the Midlands Dying Well Group developed an accessible resource directory that signposts healthcare workers and members of the public to evidence-based information and supports across a range of areas, including: palliative care; support for children and teenagers; grief, loss and bereavement; suicide bereavement; sudden death; death of a child; and supports for healthcare workers, among other topics.
The directory includes images of each resource, descriptions, web links and QR codes for easy access, along with information on how resources can be obtained and whether they are intended for healthcare workers, members of the public, or both.
Frances Neville, Clinical Nurse Manager 3, Laois Offaly Specialist Palliative Care Team, and Lead of the Midlands Dying Well Group, said: "We know that conversations around dying, death and bereavement can be challenging for healthcare professionals, patients and families alike.
"This directory brings together trusted, evidence-based resources in one accessible place, making it easier to find information and support when it is needed most."
Mary Doolan, Chairperson of the Midlands Dying Well Group, ICPOP Operational Lead Laois/Offaly and co-lead of the initiative, said: "Through this collaboration across hospital, community, residential, mental health and disability services, we hope to enhance confidence, knowledge and compassionate care for those navigating end-of-life care and bereavement.
"The directory supports healthcare workers in accessing resources that can help meet the needs of service users and those important to them. It also provides a valuable source of information, guidance and practical support for members of the public."
The Midlands Dying Well Group is a collaborative initiative involving healthcare professionals from acute, community, residential care, mental health and disability services who work together to improve experiences of end-of-life care and bereavement support throughout the region.
The launch formed part of Palliative Care Week 2026 activities across the Midlands, which aimed to raise awareness of palliative care and the supports available to individuals and families living with serious illness.
Midland Regional Hospital Tullamore also marked Palliative Care Week 2026 through a series of awareness and educational initiatives, including information stands for staff and the public, as well as lectures exploring the role of palliative care in supporting people living with serious illness.