New Referral and Review Process for Children and Young People

Starting April 2026, Shooting Star Children’s Hospices will introduce an updated referral criteria and a new review process to ensure care remains tailored to the evolving needs of children, young people, and families.

The referral criteria has been reviewed to ensure it fits the needs of our children, young people and their families. You can view the new criteria here.

Reviews will take place at key ages: 2, 5, 8, 11, 14, and 17 years old.

They help us understand your child’s changing needs and ensure our support remains appropriate and impactful.

We will gather up-to-date clinical information from your child’s medical team. A community nurse will arrange a telephone call or home visit to discuss your child’s and family’s needs.

If the review suggests your child may no longer meet our criteria, this will be discussed by our referrals panel, which includes professionals from different hospice teams.

Support will end safely within 6 months, and we will communicate this with care and provide support throughout the process.

Yes, families will receive clear communication about the outcome and next steps.

We understand change can bring questions or concerns. This process will be handled with sensitivity, and our priority remains your child’s wellbeing.

You can either call us on 01483 230 960 or Email: reviews@shootingstar.org.uk