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Department of Health @health-ni.gov.uk · 14/11/2025

The Health Minister has confirmed the funding position in relation to the Real Living Wage (RLW) for homecare workers. ➡️ Read more: t.ly/3ecqL

A graphic with a picture of Health Minister Mike Nesbitt. Text beside the picture reads: “I am fully committed to resolving all our pay issues going forward and to funding the Real Living Wage (RLW) at the earliest affordable opportunity.

“This will be a priority for me in the planning of our expenditure for the financial year 2026/27.”

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Department of Health @health-ni.gov.uk · 14/11/2025

The Health Minister opened the 60th birthday celebrations for the Division of Clinical Psychology at the Foundations for the Future conference in Belfast. The conference reflected on the impact clinical psychology has made and continues to make.

Health Minister Mike Nesbitt speaking at the 60th birthday celebrations for the Division of Clinical Psychology at the Foundations for the Future conference in Belfast.

Pictured left to right: Dr Kerry Sweeney; Dr Sarah Meekin; Professor Nichola Rooney, DoH Chief Psychological Professions Officer; Health Minister Mike Nesbitt; Dr Mark Conachy

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Department of Health @health-ni.gov.uk · 13/11/2025

The Health Minister visited Antrim Area Hospital to see an AI project helping identify bone fractures. Minister Nesbitt said Boneview AI was "delivering real-time benefits to patients", with missed fracture rates down. @northernhsct.bsky.social 👉Read more: t.ly/hsW2X

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Department of Health @health-ni.gov.uk · 11/11/2025

💊 Addiction can affect anyone ⚠️ Warning signs of painkiller addiction: needing medicine for longer periods, higher doses, or feeling unwell when you stop taking them. 🗣️ Contact your community or practice pharmacist, or GP for support. 👉 More info: t.ly/BDA99

A cartoon illustration of various people looking worried or stressed. Text above the illustration reads: "Addiction can affect anyone"

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Department of Health @health-ni.gov.uk · 10/11/2025

The Health Minister attended a Macmillan Cancer Support coffee morning at Stormont. Minister Nesbitt said it was "a privilege to meet people living with cancer, and their families and friends. I'm grateful to the staff and volunteers - inspiring people doing incredible work." 💚☕️

Health Minister Mike Nesbitt with Sarah Christie Macmillan Nation Lead NI

The Health Minister talking to people at a stand at the Macmillan cancer coffee morning event.

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Department of Health @health-ni.gov.uk · 07/11/2025

The Health Minister was delighted to accept an invitation to present an award at the The Royal College of Psychiatrists Awards Ceremony. Minister Nesbitt presented the @rcpsych.bsky.social award for Psychiatric Team of the Year: Working-age Adults.

The Health Minister Mike Nesbitt speaking from a podium at the Royal College of Psychiatrists Awards Ceremony in London.

The Health Minister Mike Nesbitt pictured with the winners of the Psychiatric Team of the Year: Working-age Adults award at the Royal College of Psychiatrists Awards Ceremony in London.

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Department of Health @health-ni.gov.uk · 06/11/2025

During a visit to London, Health Minister Mike Nesbitt met with Wes Streeting, Secretary of State for Health and Social Care. They discussed a range of topics including reducing inequalities in health and sustained collaboration on factors which impact on health and wellbeing.

Health Minister Mike Nesbitt pictured with Secretary of State for Health Wes Streeting.

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Department of Health @health-ni.gov.uk · 06/11/2025

The Health Minister has confirmed the restoration of pay parity for health and social care staff. 👉 Full statement: t.ly/w-ZVV

A picture of Health Minister Mike Nesbitt with text beside it which reads: “The Executive has today given me approval to deliver pay parity for health service staff.”

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Department of Health @health-ni.gov.uk · 05/11/2025

The Department is seeking to appoint a Non-Executive Chair to @belfasttrust.bsky.social 👉 Find out more: t.ly/FdJJa

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Department of Health @health-ni.gov.uk · 05/11/2025

“People lose their lives, people end up in ICU.” 💊 People from all walks of life can become addicted to combination painkillers. 👇 Watch Dr Joy Watson, @BelfastTrust, talk about the dangers of addiction to over the counter painkillers. 🔗 t.ly/LBk3M

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Department of Health @health-ni.gov.uk · 05/11/2025

From 1 December, eligible Universal Credit recipients will have automatic entitlement to: 👁️ Free sight tests 🦷 Dental treatment and 🚗Travel costs for health service treatment It's part of the The Help with Health Costs scheme. 👉 Find out more: t.ly/ygaYz

A picture of Health Minister Mike Nesbitt with text beside it which reads: “I am delighted to say that work has completed to update the relevant legislation which now brings Northern Ireland in line with the rest of the UK in this area.”

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Department of Health @health-ni.gov.uk · 04/11/2025

The Health Minister attended the Mesothelioma UK and Macmillan Cancer Support launch of the NI Regional Mesothelioma Clinical Nurse Specialist. Minister Nesbitt said it marked a "significant milestone" in efforts to "improve cancer care and support".

Pictured left to right at Stormont: Sarah Christie, Macmillan Cancer Support, Health Minister Mike Nesbitt and Liz Darlison, CEO Mesothelioma UK

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Department of Health @health-ni.gov.uk · 04/11/2025

💊 The Health Minister has welcomed the launch of the "5 Moments for Medication Safety" toolkit 👉 It helps with: ✅ Starting a new medicine ✅ Taking a medication ✅ Adding in medication, ✅ Reviewing a long-term medication ✅ Stopping a medicine 🔗 t.ly/2MY6S

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Department of Health @health-ni.gov.uk · 03/11/2025

The Health Minister has thanked occupational therapists on Occupational Therapy Week for their "incredible" work. Minister Nesbitt said OTs helped patients live "life to the fullest" through their compassion and commitment. @thercot.bsky.social

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Department of Health @health-ni.gov.uk · 03/11/2025

The Chief Pharmaceutical Officer has thanked community pharmacy teams on Ask Your Pharmacist Week. Professor Cathy Harrison highlighted the work these teams do to provide "safe and reliable" healthcare services.

A photo of Chief Pharmaceutical Officer Professor Cathy Harrison with text beside it which reads: “Thank you to our highly skilled community pharmacy teams providing vital healthcare services in neighbourhoods across Northern Ireland, including safe and reliable supplies of medicines, professional advice, and clinical services to prevent and treat illness."

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Department of Health @health-ni.gov.uk · 30/10/2025

Make sure you have the right information, at the right time, in the right way this Health Literacy Month. 👇 Learn more from the Deputy Chief Medical Officer Dr Naresh Chada and Ajay 👇 ➡️More info: engage.hscni.net/related-area...

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Department of Health @health-ni.gov.uk · 30/10/2025

The Chief Nursing Officer is encouraging the public and health and social care staff to get their winter flu vaccine. Prof Maria McIlgorm got her flu jab through @setrust.bsky.social and said it was one of "the simplest ways of protecting you, your family, and your patients from flu".

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Department of Health @health-ni.gov.uk · 29/10/2025

💬 Have questions about the Waiting List Reimbursement Scheme? 📲 A dedicated team is here to help — call 028 9536 8303 (Mon–Fri, 10 am–4 pm). ❓ FAQs: online.hscni.net/our-work/tra...

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Department of Health @health-ni.gov.uk · 29/10/2025

The Health Minister is reminding people that "every minute counts" on World Stroke Day. Minister Nesbitt said that message "highlights the importance of recognising the signs of stroke and acting fast". ➡️Read more: www.health-ni.gov.uk/news/nesbitt...

A picture of the Health Minister Mike Nesbitt with text beside it which reads: “I would encourage everyone in Northern Ireland to be a ‘stroke hero’ and learn the signs of stroke to help prevent the devastating impact they have. Every minute saved increases the chances of a full recovery. If you spot a sign of stroke, call 999 immediately.”

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Department of Health @health-ni.gov.uk · 28/10/2025

🦷The Health Minister Mike Nesbitt and Chief Dental Officer Caroline Lappin visited Kilrea Dental Surgery recently to hear about their contribution to improving access to Health Service dental care through the Dental Access Scheme (DAS). ➡️Read more: www.health-ni.gov.uk/news/health-...

Health Minister Mike Nesbitt with staff at Kilrea Dental Surgery.

Health Minister Mike Nesbitt and Chief Dental Officer Caroline Lappin with staff at Kilrea Dental Surgery.

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Department of Health @health-ni.gov.uk · 27/10/2025

The Health Minister has launched the Department's Core Grant funding scheme for 2026/2027. Organisations have until 12pm on Friday 28 November 2025 to apply for funding from the scheme. ➡️Read more: health-ni.gov.uk/news/health-...

A picture of Health Minister Mike Nesbitt with text beside it which reads: “My Department and I are committed to supporting the community and voluntary sector as much as possible, recognising its vital role in promoting public health and social wellbeing.”

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Department of Health @health-ni.gov.uk · 24/10/2025

The Department has urged people to ensure they know what to look out for when it comes to their own health, this Health Literacy Awareness Month. The Regional Health Literacy Forum was set up in 2019 to promote health literacy. ➡️More info: engage.hscni.net/related-area...

A graphic showing a picture of Regional Health Literacy Forum member Gary Maxwell, from the Department of Health. Beside the picture is text which reads: “For me, good health literacy means people have the knowledge and skills to make the best choices to manage their health.

“Health literacy is a determinant of health and it is helpful for it to be referenced in Making Life Better and the Live Better approach.”

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Department of Health @health-ni.gov.uk · 22/10/2025

👏 The Health Minister welcomed the launch of the @nspcc.bsky.social ‘Take 5 Seconds’ campaign this morning at Shankill Women's Centre. 👪 Partnering with Children in Northern Ireland, the campaign helps parents stay calm when parenting gets tough ➡️Read more: nspcc.org.uk/advice-for-f...

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Department of Health @health-ni.gov.uk · 16/10/2025

📹WATCH: A Belfast man who became addicted to combination painkillers 12 years ago. 💊At the height of his addiction, he was taking 64 tablets daily and weighed 4 stone. 🧑‍⚕️Treatment saved him and turned his life around. 🗣️Speak to your GP or Pharmacist. @belfasttrust.bsky.social

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Department of Health @health-ni.gov.uk · 16/10/2025

The Health Minister Mike Nesbitt has launched the Department’s 2025/26 Overarching Winter Preparedness Plan. It sets out key measures to protect health and social care services during another challenging winter period. ➡️Read more: www.health-ni.gov.uk/news/work-to...

A graphic showing Health Minister Mike Nesbitt. Text beside it reads: “While the HSC system is under 365 day pressure, it is undoubtedly magnified in the winter months. To help mitigate this, and deliver the best possible care to those who need it, we again are asking the HSC system and the public to work together to help protect vital services."

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Department of Health @health-ni.gov.uk · 14/10/2025

The Health Minister has thanked Allied Health Professionals for "everything that you do" on World AHP Day, visiting @westernhsctrust.bsky.social AHPs recently to mark an award success. ➡️Read more: www.health-ni.gov.uk/news/health-minister-visits-autism-early-intervention-service-mark-world-ahp-day

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Department of Health @health-ni.gov.uk · 14/10/2025

The Health Minister marked World AHP Day by paying tribute to clinicians working within a specialist @westernhsctrust.bsky.social Autism Early Intervention Service who won an award. ➡️Read more: www.health-ni.gov.uk/news/health-minister-visits-autism-early-intervention-service-mark-world-ahp-day

Pictured left to right: Siobhan Martin, Clare Wilson, Charlene McLaughlin, Health Minister Mike Nesbitt, Eileen Dolan, Dr Mary McDaid, Sarah McElholm and Margaret Ferris

Health Minister Mike Nesbitt with Pamela Likely and her daughter, Amy.

Health Minister Mike Nesbitt with Sinéad Trainor, and her son Donnchá, as well as Sinead’s mum, Linda Donnelly.

Dr Mary McDaid (Head of Service, Western Trust Children & Young People Autism Service), and Health Minister Mike Nesbitt.

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Department of Health @health-ni.gov.uk · 08/10/2025

Members of the Regional Health Literacy Forum are encouraging people to become more aware of their health literacy this Health Literacy Awareness Month. ➡️More info: engage.hscni.net/related-area...

A graphic showing Regional Health Literacy Forum Co-Chair Katie Blair with text beside it which reads: “By enhancing health literacy, we can create a more informed and empowered population that actively participates in their health and well-being. For an individual, this could be in relation to their medication, lifestyle choices or being able to navigate their personal mental health.”

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Department of Health @health-ni.gov.uk · 07/10/2025

The Health Minister was invited to The Parent Rooms in Belfast city centre to officially open their new building. Minister Nesbitt said the new building would provide a "safe and supportive space for parents and families for many years to come". ➡️Info: www.theparentrooms.co.uk/

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Department of Health @health-ni.gov.uk · 06/10/2025

The Department recently organised a Regional Adult Safeguarding Conference in partnership with @qubelfastofficial.bsky.social The focus was sharing recent safeguarding research and informing practice leads on the current progress of the Adult Protection Bill.

Attendees at the Regional Adult Safeguarding Conference listen to a presentation

Pictured from left to right: Dr James Todd (SHSCT), Caroline Holloway (DoH, IAPB), Fiona Rowan (DoH) and Prof Lorna Montgomery (QUB).

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Department of Health @health-ni.gov.uk · 02/10/2025

The Health and @daera-ni.gov.uk Ministers visited Laurel View Farm in Ballyclare as part of Social Farm Awareness Week 🚜🐮 Minister Nesbitt said social farms provide important day opportunities for people living with learning disabilities.

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Department of Health @health-ni.gov.uk · 29/09/2025

Responding to a motion in the Northern Ireland Assembly, the Health Minister outlined some measures to improve gynaecology services, including those for endometriosis 👇

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Department of Health @health-ni.gov.uk · 26/09/2025

"I'm very pleased to support what is a life and death issue." The Health Minister has urged people to have conversations around their wishes this Organ Donation Week. 🔗 www.publichealth.hscni.net/news/public-health-agency-and-translink-celebrating-organ-donation-week-and-gift-life

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Reposted by Department of Health

nidirect @nidirect.gov.uk · 25/09/2025

It's #EyeHealthWeek. It’s important to get your eyes tested every two years. Get information and advice: www.nidirect.gov.uk/news/importa... #EyeCare #EyeHealth @health-ni.gov.uk

Someone getting an eye test - Eye health

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Department of Health @health-ni.gov.uk · 26/09/2025

Life experiences in the first 1,000 days can have long-term implications for a child’s health, growth and development. The Healthy Child, Healthy Future framework has been launched by the Health Minister. 🔗 www.health-ni.gov.uk/news/first-1000-days-childs-life-are-critical-minister-nesbitt

Pictured left to right in the Stormont Great Hall: Sonia Glendinning, Nursing Officer, Department of Health (DoH); Mary Frances McManus, DoH Deputy Chief Nursing Officer; Health Minister Mike Nesbitt; Dr Naresh Chada, DoH Deputy Chief Medical Officer; Caroline Keown, DoH Chief Midwifery Officer.

Health Minister Mike Nesbitt speaking at the Healthy Child, Healthy Future event at the Long Gallery in Parliament Buildings.

Deputy Chief Nursing Officer Mary-Frances McManus Mike Nesbitt speaking at the Healthy Child, Healthy Future event at the Long Gallery in Parliament Buildings.

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Department of Health @health-ni.gov.uk · 25/09/2025

The Chief Pharmaceutical Officer has wished pharmacists a happy World Pharmacists Day. Professor Cathy Harrison said the "Think Health, Think Pharmacist' theme reflects the wide range of services pharmacies provide, including the Pharmacy First service.

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Department of Health @health-ni.gov.uk · 24/09/2025

The Health Minister officially opened the Rapid Diagnosis Centre at Whiteabbey Hospital in @northernhsct.bsky.social Minister Nesbitt said "we are building a health service that can deliver earlier diagnoses and better outcomes". ➡️Read more: www.health-ni.gov.uk/news/health-...

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Department of Health @health-ni.gov.uk · 24/09/2025

The Health Minister Mike Nesbitt and Permanent Secretary Mike Farrar joined Optometry Northern Ireland (ONI) at an event in Stormont to highlight the vital role of community optometry in improving access to care and shaping the future of eyecare. ➡️More: www.health-ni.gov.uk/news/deliver...

Pictured on a balcony at Parliament Buildings, left to right: Chair of Optometry NI, Brian McKeown and Professor Mark Taylor, Regional Clinical Director for Elective Care, Department of Health.

Pictured on a balcony at Parliament Buildings, left to right: Professor Julie-Anne Little (Ulster University), Brian McKeown (Optometry NI), Mike Farrar Permanent Secretary at Department of Health, Health Minister Mike Nesbitt, Jill Campbell (Optometry NI), Steven Harding (Optometry NI).

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Department of Health @health-ni.gov.uk · 23/09/2025

The Health Minister has addressed recent comments in the United States suggesting taking paracetamol during pregnancy can cause autism in children. 👇 See below 👇

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Department of Health @health-ni.gov.uk · 23/09/2025

The Department of Health's Chief Digital Officer has urged patients to download the My Care app 📱 Dr Paul Rice said patients could better organise their healthcare through the app ⚕️ ➡️Sign up here: bit.ly/4iF5k8n

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Department of Health @health-ni.gov.uk · 18/09/2025

🔓Phase Two of the Waiting List Reimbursement Scheme is now OPEN. 👇Find out more through the FAQs for the scheme 🔗 online.hscni.net/our-work/tra...

A graphic of a medical waiting room, with text over the top which reads: "Waiting List Reimbursement Scheme. FAQ"

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Department of Health @health-ni.gov.uk · 17/09/2025

The Health and @education-ni.gov.uk Ministers helped launch Organ Donation NI education packs at Forthill Integrated College. 🔗 organdonationni.info/latest/publi...

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Department of Health @health-ni.gov.uk · 16/09/2025

The Health Minister has launched Northern Ireland’s first strategy focused on the sustainable use of medicines. Minister Nesbitt said "it is vital that we all work together to make the best possible use of our medicines". ➡️ Read more: health-ni.gov.uk/news/health-...

Pictured left to right at Stormont's Great Hall: Chief Pharmaceutical Officer Professor Cathy Harrison and Health Minister Mike Nesbitt, holding a copy each of the ‘Valuing Medicines: A Strategy for the Sustainable Use of Medicines in Northern Ireland’ document.

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Department of Health @health-ni.gov.uk · 15/09/2025

The Health Minister thanked staff on the haematology unit at the Children's Hospital at RVH Belfast. Minister Nesbitt met a young patient as well as staff and said he was extremely grateful for the staff "and everything they do".

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Department of Health @health-ni.gov.uk · 15/09/2025

🔓Phase Two of the Waiting List Reimbursement Scheme is now OPEN. ⬇️Qualifying period down from two years to one 🌍Extended to wider EU 🔗Find out more here: online.hscni.net/our-work/tra...

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Department of Health @health-ni.gov.uk · 12/09/2025

The Health Minister joined a crew from Ardoyne Ambulance Station on shift to see the conditions they face 🚑 Minister Nesbitt thanked ambulance crews for their dedication and said work continues to reduce handover times at emergency departments 👇

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Department of Health @health-ni.gov.uk · 11/09/2025

The Chief Nursing Officer welcomed nurses and midwives from across Northern Ireland to her annual conference. The Health Minister and Prof Maria McIlgorm thanked them for their contributions to health and social care. ➡️Read more: www.health-ni.gov.uk/news/ministe...

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Department of Health @health-ni.gov.uk · 10/09/2025

The Health Minister has announced the development of a new career framework for nursing and midwifery. Minister Nesbitt said "we are focused on ensuring that recruitment, retention, and career progression are at the core of our agenda". ➡️Read more: www.health-ni.gov.uk/news/ministe...

Pictured from left to right: Professor Maria McIlgorm, Chief Nursing Officer for Northern Ireland; Health Minister Mike Nesbitt; Dr Chris Turner, Consultant in Emergency Medicine and co-founder of Civility Saves Lives.

Health Minister Mike Nesbitt speaking at the Chief Nursing Officer's Conference.

The Chief Nursing Officer Professor Maria McIlgorm speaking at the Chief Nursing Officer's Conference.

DR Chris Turner speaking at the Chief Nursing Officer's Conference.

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Department of Health @health-ni.gov.uk · 09/09/2025

The Department is seeking to appoint an Independent Chair and two Members to the Safeguarding Board for Northern Ireland. ➡️Read more: health-ni.gov.uk/publications...

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Department of Health @health-ni.gov.uk · 09/09/2025

The Health Minister spoke with palliative care officials as part of Palliative Care Week. Minister Nesbitt attended a Hospice UK event at Stormont and said he would continue to advocate for awareness of palliative care and those who help provide it.

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