The Gospel Centre in Victor Harbor was packed with Fleurieu residents on Wednesday 28 April for a community forum on local experiences of palliative care.

Chris Picton, Shadow Minister for Health and Wellbeing, attended as well as local resident

Lou Nicholson Independent candidate for the seat of Finniss in the 2022 state election.

According to Ms Nicholson the message from the forum was clear: the Fleurieu needs increased funding for palliative care services and a dedicated local hospice.

“The community is frustrated as these same conversations have been going on for years. At a state level, it’s time for some genuine interest in the needs of the Fleurieu and a strong voice advocating for our community.”

The forum was organised by the Women’s Progressive Group. 

Ms Nicholson says many stirring experiences were shared by the community and there was a strong sense of appreciation for the palliative care team at the Southern Fleurieu Health Service. 

However, it was clear that further resources were needed to provide out-of-hours support to patients at home. 

As one attendee stated, “people don’t always die between 8am and 4pm.”

She says a dedicated hospice is also crucial for those who cannot or do not want to be palliated at home. 

“Acute hospitals or residential aged care facilities do not have the resources to consistently provide the specialised care required through death and bereavement.”

The forum called for a working party to raise this issue across all levels of government and fight for these services so desperately needed on the Fleurieu.

Image by truthseeker08 from Pixabay