Children’s Memorial Garden opened at Roscommon Hospice

A Children’s Memorial Garden has been officially opened at the Roscommon Palliative Care Support Unit.

The garden provides a dedicated, peaceful space where families can remember their children and find comfort, reflection and connection within a supportive healthcare environment.

The HSE West and North West initiative, in partnership with the Mayo Roscommon Hospice Foundation, “reflects the HSE’s ongoing commitment to compassionate, family centred care and to supporting both families and staff involved in paediatric palliative care services. It also highlights the importance of providing appropriate bereavement supports within healthcare settings and creating spaces that acknowledge and honour the experiences of families and communities affected by childhood loss,” said a spokesperson.

The garden features a commissioned stone sculpture by Roscommon stonemason Mark Feeley with landscaping and design by Ardcarne Garden Centre.

The opening included creative contributions from Roscommon based musician Donal O’Connor and writer Michael Harding, providing a reflective and respectful setting for the occasion.

The community specialist palliative care team in Roscommon provides care and support to individuals living with complex life limiting illnesses across the region. Specialist palliative care is delivered through a multidisciplinary approach, supporting the physical, emotional, social, and spiritual needs of children, young people, and their families throughout illness and into bereavement.

The development of the Children’s Memorial Garden was informed by engagement with bereaved parents, who highlighted the importance of having a dedicated space for remembrance and reflection. Their input has been central to shaping this environment for families.

“This initiative demonstrates the HSE’s commitment to building compassionate communities and strengthening partnerships with voluntary organisations, local communities, and families to ensure that people are supported through all stages of life, including death, dying, and bereavement. Memorial spaces such as this play an important role in supporting grieving families and recognising the profound impact of childhood loss,” added the spokesperson.

The Children’s Memorial Garden was officially opened by representatives from the HSE West and North West and the Mayo Roscommon Hospice Foundation, with families and staff in attendance.