A major investment in specialist palliative care has been completed in Sligo, with North West Hospice opening a new 12-bedded inpatient unit on 2 November 2026. The HSE hospice expansion increases capacity, improves clinical facilities and creates a more private, comfortable setting for patients and their families.
HSE West and North West confirmed that the new development replaces the hospice’s previous seven-bed inpatient capacity. Eight beds will open initially, with the service expected to transition to all 12 beds as staffing and operational arrangements progress.
HSE hospice expansion strengthens palliative care in the North West
The project began in March 2024 and was designed around the needs of patients, relatives, staff and volunteers. The new environment reflects North West Hospice’s stated values of compassion, accountability, excellence and respect.
The development is intended to support people who require specialist palliative and end-of-life care across Sligo, Leitrim, South Donegal and West Cavan. It also upgrades multidisciplinary team spaces, helping clinical professionals coordinate care and provide support across physical, emotional, social and spiritual needs.
Health Minister Jennifer Carroll MacNeill said the opening was an important step in expanding specialist palliative care. She highlighted the value of single-occupancy rooms for privacy, dignity and confidentiality, as well as the opportunity for families to participate in care and stay overnight with loved ones.
What the new hospice unit provides
- Increased inpatient capacity from seven beds to 12
- Improved multidisciplinary team facilities
- More appropriate spaces for patient privacy and family support
- A modern, patient-centred setting for end-of-life care
Second phase will add day-service facilities
The next stage of the project is expected to begin in the coming months. It will repurpose the existing inpatient unit to provide additional multidisciplinary team space and a day-service facility for outpatient reviews.
That phase is scheduled for completion in the second quarter of 2027. Once finished, the expanded campus will offer a broader range of palliative care supports, linking inpatient treatment with planned reviews and ongoing clinical services.
North West Hospice also recognised the contribution of the North West Hospice Charity, regional donors, staff and volunteers. Fundraising by communities across the region over almost four decades helped support the project, including patient-comfort features within the new building.
Why the development matters for families
Emma Ball, HSE General Manager for the Sligo South Donegal Community Healthcare Area, said palliative care must address the individual needs of patients and those close to them. The service aims to provide comfort, dignity and comprehensive support throughout each person’s care journey.
The new unit is therefore more than an increase in bed numbers. It provides a purpose-built setting where patients can receive expert care while families have greater opportunities for involvement, privacy and reassurance.
Frequently asked questions
How many beds does North West Hospice now have?
The development increases inpatient capacity from seven beds to 12. Eight beds will open initially, with the remaining capacity introduced as operations progress.
When did the new unit open?
The new unit opened on Monday, 2 November 2026.
Who does North West Hospice serve?
The service supports communities in Sligo, Leitrim, South Donegal and West Cavan.
What will happen in the second phase?
The existing inpatient unit will be repurposed for multidisciplinary team space and a day-service facility for outpatient patient reviews, with completion expected in Q2 2027.
Article/Image Courtesy: HSE
The North West Hospice expansion marks a significant step for palliative care in the region. With additional beds now opening and day-service facilities planned for 2027, the project provides a stronger, more patient-centred foundation for specialist care across the North West.