Australia’s first and only hospice for adolescents and young adults is now open and ready to take in patients.
iN December 2022, the Northern Sydney Local Health District staff, patients, and the local Manly community celebrated the end of construction of the Adolescent and Young Adult Hospice located at the former site of Manly Hospital in North Head.
The first of its kind of facility to open in Australia will be accepting 15 to 24-year-old patients with a life-limiting illness beginning February 2023, providing care, symptom management or end-of-life care.
“The AYAH addresses a critical need in the care sector by providing specialised care for young people, and support for families, including bereavement support and counselling,” NSLHD Interim Chief Executive Lee Gregory said.
Throughout its planning and construction, Mr Lee said that the project team had worked closely with Bear Cottage in terms of design, the art strategy, recruitment and appropriate furniture, fittings and equipment.
Moreover, they have kept a strong focus on long-term sustainability initiatives holding a 4-star Green Star equivalent, solar panels on the roof, LED lighting throughout and water capture facilities.
Adolescent and Young Adult Hospice houses eight bedrooms for patients with each having an ensuite and outdoor balcony. There are two carer’s lounges as well and two family accommodation units with two bedrooms each.
The facility also features telehealth consult spaces, an on-site dedicated kitchen and dining room; breakout spaces room, games room, media room, multisensory room, quiet and sitting rooms; and laundry for families staying overnight.
Outside is an outdoor balcony off the lounge room offering views over the harbour plus gardening as well as landscaping areas which include spaces for outdoor activities.
“The hospice will be important for young people who outgrow Bear Cottage or who are diagnosed with life-limiting conditions as a young adult,” he said.
The project was possible through funding from the NSW Government and the Australian Government, and generous donations from community groups and local organisations.
Published 31-January-2023
