SDLP Foyle MLA Mark H Durkan
Last year, following Mr Durkan’s proposals for an expansion of the Hospital Travel Costs Scheme to include parents with sick children from low-income households, the Health Minister agreed to initiate a review.
Said the Foyle MLA: “Sadly, there are many families with sick children battling the added financial challenges that come with travelling for hospital appointment. They are facing a system stacked against them.
“Coping with the challenges that come with caring for a seriously ill child takes its toll on any parent.
“The prospect of their child being unwell or requiring a hospital stay is worrying in itself, yet for many parents of children with long-term health conditions, travel costs to avail of specialist medical treatment can prove costly.
“They should be supported during such an incredibly difficult time.
“I’ve been fighting over the past few years to ensure these parents are included in the Hospital Travel Costs Scheme which would cover the costs for travel to hospital appointments and also pay for travel to allow parents to visit their sick children receiving inpatient care.
“This time last year, after initially rejecting my proposal, the Health Minister agreed to review the scheme.
“However, the budget pressures within the department and continued boycott of our institutions at the hands of the DUP has hindered progress.
“Opening up this scheme is even more important now given the financial climate and I’ve no doubt it will prove to be a financial lifeline for struggling families.
“I’ll continue to campaign to deliver this vital provision.”
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