Partnership to secure future of palliative care in Geelong

ANAM Cara House Geelong will enter a new era, with a new partnership ensuring its compassionate legacy continues to serve the region for generations to come.

Anam Cara, Barwon Health and Deakin University have developed a plan that will see Barwon Health deliver its inpatient and community-based palliative care services from Anam Cara House, a purpose-built facility on the grounds of Deakin’s Waurn Ponds campus.

The partnership aims to ensure Geelong residents continue to have access to high-quality, locally delivered palliative care in a setting designed for comfort and connection.

It also guarantees Anam Cara’s founding vision of care and compassion remain at the heart of its operations.

Anam Cara chair Diana Taylor said Anam Cara House would always be a symbol of the courage, dedication and love the Geelong community has for each other.

“Anam Cara established itself as a community-owned, nationally accredited private hospital that has captured the attention of Australia for the beauty of its design, environment, culture and the exceptional quality of its care,” she said.

“The ethos of Anam Cara House has always been the opportunity for all community members, regardless of circumstances, to access the exceptional care and experience offered by the staff and volunteers in the facility.”

Established in 2007, Anam Cara was founded to help people with life-limiting illnesses receive holistic, family-centre care and die with dignity.

The facility was realised through the generosity of donors, volunteers, community leaders and support from both the state and federal governments.

Barwon Health chair Lisa Neville welcomed the opportunity to partner with Anam Cara and Deakin University.

“We recognise and thank the Anam Cara community for their tireless support and advocacy for the needs of patients and families facing life limiting illnesses,” she said.

Deakin University vice chancellor Professor Iain Martin said the plan would ensure the vision to deliver outstanding palliative and end-of-life care will continue.

“We are grateful for all those whose passion and commitment have made Anam Cara House possible, and Deakin University looks forward to playing out part in this legacy.”

The plan is expected to be finalised in the coming weeks.