Since its inception in 1989 Laois Hospice has helped to provide a palliative care service for cancer patients, whose illness no longer responds to curative treatment. Laois Hospice provides support for families of such patients. This total care involves doctors, nurses, a team of specialists and the clergy who are all concerned with the quality of life of the patient. Laois Hospice is about caring for the terminally ill, so that their final days can be spent with as much comfort and dignity as is humanly possible.

Funding Policy

At the AGM of Laois Hospice on 27 June 2018 it was agreed to undertake a root and branch examination of how Laois Hospice works and how it should plan for the future. Towards that goal, and as virtually all our financial commitments have been met, we are now ceasing our commitments as and from 30th June 2018. Commitments previously detailed on our website and on our flyers will expire on 30 June 2018.

As of 1 July 2018 our funding policy will be as follows:

Any individual, group or organisation seeking assistance from Laois Hospice will have to submit a detailed proposal which will then be evaluated by Laois Hospice. All funding will be provided for spending upon a firm commitment by the individuals, group or organisation concerned following proof of expenditure and detailed consultation with Laois Hospice.

Our aim in the future will be focussed on palliative care particularly in our community, and as such our funding commitments to the Health Service Executive (HSE) towards that goal will continue in accordance with our funding policy outlined above.

Structure

Laois Hospice Foundation Limited is a company limited by guarantee registered with the Companies Office, and a registered charity. Laois Hospice Foundation Limited is a totally autonomous body. All funds raised by Laois Hospice within the county are for the benefit of patients in county Laois.

Structurally, the Foundation comprises a committee and a board of directors who are elected annually by rotation. All posititons on the board are elected annually at an AGM of the Committee.

Current officers and directors for 2017 are as follows:

• Mary Delaney - Chairperson
• Jennifer McKay - Secretary
• Mary Finlay - Treasurer
• Irene Murray
• Del Merideth
• Liam Holohan

It is noted that directors are provided with no remuneration or expenses for their work on behalf of Laois Hospice. All of the directors and members of the Laois Hospice Foundation committee provide their services on an entirely voluntary basis, and this has been a cornerstone of our approach since our foundation in 1989.

Hospice is about caring for the terminally ill, so that their final days can be spent with as much comfort and dignity as is humanly possible. On behalf of all who have benefited from our support, a sincere thank you to all who have contributed in any manner towards the aspirations of Laois Hospice.
- Mary Delaney, Chairperson.