I am a resident of Portlaoise, County Laois, Ireland. Recently, our local hospital made the decision to close down its visitor's cafe. This has greatly affected me and many others who frequently visit patients in the hospital. The visitor's cafe was more than just a place to grab a quick bite; it was a sanctuary where we could sit down, take a breather and gather our thoughts amidst the stressful environment of the hospital.

The closure of this cafe has left visitors with no proper place to rest or eat during their visits. This is particularly challenging for those who spend long hours at the hospital supporting their loved ones. According to research conducted by The Irish Times in 2018, family members and friends play an essential role in patient recovery as they provide emotional support that contributes significantly to patient well-being.

We understand that hospitals are primarily for medical care and not hospitality services; however, providing basic amenities such as a comfortable waiting area or cafe can make all the difference for visitors who are already under stress due to their loved one’s health condition.

We urge our local authorities and hospital management team to reconsider this decision and reinstate the visitor's cafe at our local hospital. It is not just about convenience but also about showing empathy towards those who are going through tough times.

Please sign this petition if you believe that reinstating the visitor's cafe will help improve conditions for visitors at our local hospital.