Palliative care is about quality of life. It supports people living with a life-limiting or progressive illness to manage their day-to-day needs, while their physical and emotional wellbeing is looked after — and it supports the people around them too.
Dignity and comfort sit at the centre of it. Our care professionals assist with personal care and everyday activities respectfully and unhurriedly, and leave as much choice and control with the individual as possible. We take the time to listen to what matters to the person, and their preferences are what the care plan is written around.
Care at home can provide the practical and personal support that lets somebody stay in familiar surroundings for as long as that is appropriate and wanted. We work closely with the individual, their family and the professionals already involved — GPs, district nurses, specialist palliative teams and hospices — so that care is coordinated and everyone understands what has been agreed. End-of-life needs can change quickly, so packages are reviewed and adapted as circumstances develop.
What is palliative care?
It is care that focuses on quality of life for somebody living with a life-limiting or progressive illness. It supports day-to-day needs alongside physical and emotional wellbeing, and it may be needed for months or only in the final weeks.
Can palliative care be provided at home?
Yes. Home-based care can provide the practical and personal support required to help somebody remain in familiar surroundings for as long as that is appropriate and desired.
Do you work with our GP, district nurses or hospice?
Yes. We work alongside GPs, district nurses, specialist palliative care teams, hospices and any other professionals involved. Our role is to deliver the agreed care within our team’s competence and to keep those professionals informed when needs or circumstances change.
Can you support the family as well?
Yes. Relatives and loved ones often need practical help, reassurance and time simply to be with the person they care about. Our care team provide that support while respecting family relationships and the wishes of the person receiving care.
Will personal beliefs and cultural preferences be respected?
Yes. Individual beliefs, cultural preferences, personal values and choices are respected, and we work with families and professionals to provide care that is appropriate to the person.
What happens if needs change quickly?
Care packages are reviewed and adapted as circumstances develop. We keep in contact with the individual, the family and the relevant professionals so that changes in needs are identified and the right support considered.
