The Western Health and Social Care Trust will launch a new combined nursing service on 1 June 2026.

District nursing and rapid response teams will operate as one unit called the Community Nursing Home and Hub Service.

The change aims to deliver more coordinated care across the community and reduce pressure on hospitals.

Assistant Director Paula Devine said the teams deliver immediate specialised care where needed and help prevent unnecessary hospital admissions.

She noted the staff worked together to develop the model while keeping patient, family and carer needs central.