Introducing 'House of Care': A New Support Service for Ukrainian Children Requiring Palliative Care

Unveiling the 'House of Care' Initiative

According to Рубрика — Суспільство: Ukraine has introduced a pioneering social service called the 'House of Care,' designed specifically for children who need palliative support but do not require constant hospitalization. This initiative was officially presented by Denys Uliutin, the Minister of Social Policy, Family, and Unity of Ukraine. Developed by a specialized working group in collaboration with healthcare professionals and led by the Ministry of Social Policy, the program aims to provide these children with continuous care in a family-like environment.

Across Ukraine, hundreds of orphaned children and those without parental care require palliative assistance. The 'House of Care' service will accommodate between 6 and 12 children at one location, with no more than two children sharing a room. The facility will be staffed by family caregivers, social workers, and two nurses who will offer round-the-clock medical supervision.

Healthcare and Community Support Framework

Medical care will be delivered directly at the children’s residence, with the option for inpatient treatment if necessary. This new service model divides responsibilities between healthcare providers and social services. At the regional level, a network of pediatric hospitals, rehabilitation centers, palliative care units, children’s hospices, and respiratory support centers will operate alongside the 'House of Care' facilities. Within local communities, the system will include:

• Family doctors
• Mobile palliative and rehabilitation teams
• Early intervention programs
• Social services and case management

Minister Denys Uliutin emphasized the significance of this approach, stating: "Children with families return home once their condition stabilizes. Children without families also deserve a place they can call home. They should not be shuffled between hospitals during care gaps. This new model aims to fill that void."

The Ministry of Social Policy plans to pilot the 'House of Care' service and eventually expand it nationwide. The concept was revealed during the 'Butterflies of Hope' summit, which focuses on advancing pediatric palliative care in Ukraine. The model also includes options for children with less intensive needs, such as placement in specialized foster families or within the 'House of Care.'

"In the 'City of Kindness,' every child is supported by a seamless care pathway tailored to their unique needs. Our goal is to make this level of support available to children in every community across Ukraine," Uliutin added.

Launching the 'House of Care' concept marks a critical advancement in securing the rights and well-being of children requiring palliative care. It offers a more comfortable alternative to traditional hospital stays and fosters stronger collaboration between medical and social systems, laying the groundwork for the future development of pediatric palliative care services throughout Ukraine.

As Ukraine takes significant strides in enhancing palliative care for children, the upcoming international summit on pediatric palliative care in Chernivtsi in 2026 promises to gather experts dedicated to improving support systems. This event underscores the growing recognition of the importance of specialized care for vulnerable children, aligning with the newly launched 'House of Care' initiative.