Member for Morwell Russell Northe has established an online petition calling upon the State Government to consider and explore opportunities in the Latrobe Valley to build a dedicated hospice in our local community.
Mr Northe has previously written to the Health Minister seeking support in exploring the benefits of establishing a hospice care facility whether that be at the former and now vacant Churchill Hazelwood House aged care facility or another suitable location in the Latrobe Valley.
The reasoning for suggesting Hazelwood House as an option is due to the extensive benefits this facility has. There are established gardens, 38 beds and is located in a tranquil peaceful area benefiting carers, families and patients who simply want to enjoy the precious special moments they have left.
“I have continued to have conversations with many members of our community who are in strong support of this initiative with many reflecting on their own experiences with a loved one whilst stating how much a hospice is needed in our region” Mr Northe said.
In 2019 the Latrobe Health Advocate made several recommendations to the Health Minister with the number one recommendation being to establish a dedicated hospice facility for Gippsland.
“This is why I have established an online petition to request that the Health Minister and the State Government explore all options to develop a hospice in the Valley that would ultimately benefit so many individuals and families in our community. Hopefully our petition receives strong support and if we can get hundreds of signatures then it will send a blunt message to the Government that as a community we desperately need and want a hospice in our region” said Mr Northe.
To view Mr Northe’s petition please click here.
