Sinn Féin MLA Cathal Boylan has raised serious concerns about growing pressures on domiciliary care services across the Southern Health and Social Care Trust, calling on the Department of Health to take urgent action.
“My office has been inundated with calls from constituents who cannot access care packages for themselves or their family members,” the Newry and Armagh MLA said.
“People who are medically fit to be discharged from hospital are remaining in wards because no home care support is available. This is creating huge pressure across hospitals and is deeply distressing for those affected.
“Domiciliary care workers are under immense pressure, yet continue to go above and beyond for their patients, despite being underpaid and undervalued within the current banding structure. These workers are the backbone of our care system and they deserve proper recognition and investment.
“We need to expand care at home initiatives to reduce admissions, ease pressure on the health system, and help people stay safe and well at home.
“Action is now needed from the minister and his department to improve domiciliary care services.”
CRÍOCH/ENDS
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