Waterford's Pieta service will move to a new location later this year.

The decision was confirmed by Pieta yesterday as part of what's been described as "a strengthened regional and local service model aligned with national health strategies and the development of HSE Regional and Integrated Healthcare Areas". "Under this model, Pieta will establish a presence within every Integrated Healthcare Area across the country, making services more accessible to people in their local communities," the statement said. "Each area will be supported by a regional centre within the relevant HSE region, providing clinical leadership, coordination and specialist support." As part of this transition, three of Pieta's centres will move to a co-located outreach model, including the service in Waterford. "Pieta remains fully committed to Waterford and the surrounding communities," the statement added. "Maintaining continuity of care and protecting frontline capacity remain central to every decision we take.  We will work with closely with our stakeholders and partners to secure a serviced location in Waterford over the next six months." Pieta says this model allows it to "expand its footprint while operating more sustainably". "By co-locating services with other health and community partners, Pieta can deliver care in settings that are more integrated, accessible and cost-effective. Co-location enhances collaboration, reduces overheads, and ensures that clients can access supports within a broader system of care.  It also enables Pieta to maintain visibility and availability within communities while ensuring resources are directed toward clinical delivery rather than building and facility costs." The statement added: "Pieta remains fully committed to Waterford and the surrounding communities. Maintaining continuity of care and protecting frontline capacity remain central to every decision we take.  We will work with closely with our stakeholders and partners to secure a serviced location in Waterford over the next six months." For the latest Waterford News and Sport, tune into WLR News on the hour and download the WLR App for news on demand.