Coordinated by the All Ireland Institute of Hospice and Palliative Care (AIIHPC), the week-long awareness campaign shines a light on the positive impact palliative care can have from the point of diagnosis onwards, helping people live as well as possible at every stage of their journey.
For many people, palliative care is often associated solely with end-of-life care. However, palliative care is much broader than that. It focuses on improving quality of life, supporting physical, emotional, social and spiritual wellbeing, and providing care and support not only for the person with a life-limiting condition, but also for their family and carers.
At LauraLynn, Ireland's Children's Hospice, we know first-hand the difference children's palliative care can make. Our services support children with life-limiting conditions and their families, empowering them to create joyful moments, make memories together, and navigate the challenges they face with expert care and compassionate support.
As part of Palliative Care Week, LauraLynn is partnering with AIIHPC to host a series of webinars exploring different aspects of children's palliative care, family support and wellbeing.
LauraLynn Webinar Series
Stories Lived and Stories Told: Secrecy in Paediatric Palliative Care
- Monday, 7 September | 11am-12pm
- Presented by Michelle Hartnett, Family Therapist at LauraLynn
This webinar explores the lived experiences of Allied Health Professionals working in children's palliative care, with a particular focus on secrecy, disclosure and communication.
Earlier Than You Think: The Power of Children's Palliative Care
- Wednesday, 9 September | 11am-12pm
- Presented by Clare Daly, Ciara McElhinney and Sophie Ronan
Designed for healthcare professionals and members of the public, this session provides an overview of children's palliative care, the supports available through LauraLynn, and the importance of early referral and relationship-building with families.
Practical Self-Care: Looking After Yourself While Caring for Your Child
- Thursday, 10 September | 7.30pm-8.30pm
- Presented by Dr Maja Barker, Senior Clinical Psychologist at LauraLynn
A practical webinar for parents, families and carers exploring simple, achievable ways to support physical, emotional and mental wellbeing while caring for a child with complex needs.
Helping to Change the Conversation
Throughout the week, a national awareness campaign will run across radio, print, public transport and digital advertising platforms across Ireland, encouraging people to learn more about palliative care and the support available.
The campaign's central message, "It's Not What You Think", invites people to reconsider what palliative care means. It is not just about end-of-life care. It is about helping people live well, supporting families, facilitating important conversations, and ensuring the best possible quality of life for those living with serious illness.
Children's palliative care is no different. At LauraLynn, we believe every child deserves to live their life to the fullest, surrounded by care, comfort, fun and meaningful experiences. Through Palliative Care Week, we are proud to join colleagues and organisations across the island of Ireland in raising awareness of the vital role palliative care plays in the lives of children and families every day.
To learn more about Palliative Care Week 2026 and events taking place throughout the week, visit www.palliativecareweek.com.
Follow the conversation on social media using #PallCareWeek.
