Review of District Nursing Services within Northern Ireland

A review of District Nursing has been commissioned by the Acting Chief Nursing Officer for Northern Ireland to consider the future direction and development of services within Northern Ireland. The overall aim of this project is to develop a framework for practice which supports the delivery of robust effective district nursing services within an integrated health and social care system.

The major driver for change relates to a changing demography within the context of the current economic situation and increasing demand on public services, in particular from an ageing population. People are surviving longer, and there will be more and greater demand for related services as part of treatment and pathways of care. Whilst the HSC must keep pace with that demand, this needs to be achieved within available resources and will involve new ways of working.

Your views are being sought on a draft Strategy for the District Nursing Professions in Northern Ireland.

The purpose of the Review is to consider what is needed of a future district nursing service and to build on many good things district nurses already do. It includes a five year action plan for making sure that district nursing services remain safe, effective and co-ordinated with other services, especially general practice.