Dungog Shire businesses have come out in force to support a campaign to increase the number of palliative care specialists in NSW.
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The Cancer Council NSW and the CanAct community are urging the State Government to take action on what it says is a shortage of palliative care doctors and nurses.
Businesses across the shire were quick to take up the request from volunteers to hang the “We care for palliative care” posters in their shop windows to show their support.
The Williams Valley Pharmacy in Dowling Street Dungog was one of the first to hang the poster.
“We have a lot of customers that are dealing with these issues and have first hand experience,” said Peta Thorsby from the pharmacy.
“We had no hesitation in supporting this campaign, palliative care is such a fantastic organisation and the more help we can give them the better.”
Cancer Council NSW is calling on the NSW Minister for health to end the shortage of palliative care by funding 10 additional specialist palliative care doctors, at a mimimum; 129 palliative care nurses and culturally appopriate palliative care for Aboriginalpeople.
Businesses and organisations can show their support for the program by logging on to www.canact.com.au/palliative_care
May 21-28 is National Palliative Care Week, an annual awareness raising week organised by Palliative Care Australia. The theme for this year’s National Palliative Care Week is ‘You matter, your care matters. Palliative care can make a difference’.
“Demand for palliative care is increasing,” coordinator of Dungog Shire Palliative Care Volunteers Inc Jennie Wilson said.
“Professionals and volunteers are needed in our community to support patients and carers deal with dying, death and bereavement.”
National Palliative Care Week is supported by the Department of Health to raise awareness and understanding about palliative care in the Australian community.
This year’s focus is on the need for aged care services to provide palliative care where appropriate.
An ecumenical service to mark the week will be held at the Dungog Uniting Church on May 28 at 6.30pm.
“This is always a beautiful service where we remember loved ones we’ve lost and give thanks to those who assist in palliative care,” said Ms Wilson.
“Everyone is welcome to attend and a supper will be provided following the service.”
For more details visit www.palliativecare.org.au/