A pivotal three-day face-to-face workshop on paediatric palliative care was held from 22 October to 24 October 2025 at the scenic Meet Mekaar Resort in Mtubatuba, KwaZulu-Natal. The event brought together 47 dedicated healthcare professionals from 18 hospitals across Area 3, encompassing the King Cetshwayo, Zululand, and Umkhanyakude Health Districts.
This intensive training forms part of the KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Paediatric Palliative Care Plan rollout, a strategic initiative aimed at strengthening the province’s capacity to deliver compassionate, holistic care to children with life-limiting and life-threatening conditions.
Building Capacity Across Districts
Participants included doctors, nurses, allied health professionals, and social workers, all of whom play critical roles in the multidisciplinary approach required for effective paediatric palliative care. The workshop focused on:
- Principles of paediatric palliative care and its integration into existing health services
- Pain and symptom management tailored to children
- Psychosocial and spiritual support for patients and families
- Communication skills for difficult conversations
- Ethical and legal considerations in paediatric care
Julia Ambler and Tracey Brand, facilitators from Umduduzi – Hospice Care for Children, used case-based learning, interactive group work, and reflective practice to ensure participants could translate theory into action within their respective facilities. The area is also supported by Butterfly Palliative Care Homes, an NPO with two in-patient units and home based care outreach.
A Milestone in Provincial Strategy
The training marks a significant step in operationalizing the KZN Provincial Paediatric Palliative Care Plan, which envisions equitable access to quality palliative care for all children in the province. By capacitating Area 3 healthcare providers, the Department of Health is laying the groundwork for district-level implementation, with ripple effects expected in clinical practice, referral pathways, and community engagement.
Voices from the Field
Participants expressed appreciation for the opportunity to deepen their understanding and collaborate across disciplines and districts. One attendee noted,
“This training has given me the tools and confidence to advocate for my paediatric patients and support their families more meaningfully.”
Looking Ahead
As the provincial rollout continues, similar workshops are planned for other health districts, with ongoing mentorship and resource development to sustain momentum. The Meet Mekaar gathering not only equipped professionals with essential skills—it also fostered a shared commitment to dignified, child-centred care across KwaZulu-Natal.
Author
Dr Julia Ambler
Medical Director & Co-Founder of Umduduzi Hospice Care for Children
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