Woodward visits the Mater Hospital and Horizon House

Health Minister Shaun Woodward has visited the Mater Hospital Trust in Belfast and the Children's Hospice at Horizon House in Newtownabbey.

The Minister toured the Mater’s Accident & Emergency Unit, and viewed a number of departments to discuss future plans and new models of care with hospital staff. This included a presentation on the work being carried out by the Trust to help those who self-harm.

Following the visit to the Mater, the Minister said: “Self-harm is a major problem. We are only seeing the tip of the iceberg, as only 11% of those who self-harm attend hospital. This is a startling figure, which illustrates a huge hidden amount of self-harm and suffering.

“Sadly a number of those who self-harm go on to commit suicide. I have spoken recently about my heartfelt commitment to tackling this tragic problem and I commend staff here for what they are already doing to help sufferers.”

During the visit, the Minister also discussed proposed redevelopment of the hospital site, which is currently at the planning stage.

“I am pleased that the Trust has been working closely with officials on a comprehensive redevelopment plan for the Mater site. Patients and the people who work here deserve facilities which can support care of the highest quality, and which can fit with broader plans for the regeneration of North Belfast.”

The Mater Hospital HSS Trust provides a wide range of services including acute inpatient, A & E, day procedures, mental health and maternity.

A teaching hospital, associated with the Queen’s University Medical School, the Mater staff treat around 124,000 patients a year.

During his visit to Horizon House, the Minister met children and staff to see at first hand the care offered by the highly skilled nurse-led team who care for children with a terminal illness and those suffering from serious medical conditions.

Commending the dedication and commitment to the welfare of children displayed by staff, volunteers and Friends of the Hospice, the Minister said: “I wish to use this opportunity to pay tribute to the contribution of the hospice movement in Northern Ireland over many years.

“The movement, both through in-patient care and community palliative care services, has played a vital role in caring for patients and their families. In addition, I wish to acknowledge the invaluable contribution of volunteers in the area of palliative care.”

A purpose-built facility located in Newtownabbey, Horizon House comprises of a ten-bedded unit with accommodation for up to six accompanying families.

The children's hospice provides respite care and terminal care from a nurse-led multi-disciplinary team is supported by local GPs.

(SP/MB)