End of Life Care
We aim to treat people with dignity and respect and, where possible, in their preferred place of care, and to ensure they receive high standards of care during their last 12 months of life.
Who is it for?
'End of Life' care is for adults with an advanced progressive illness, for example people living with cancer or cardiovascular disease, neurological conditions and many more.
This care includes the management of pain and other symptoms at the end of life as well as psychological, social and spiritual support to help achieve the best quality end of life care for patients and their families.
How much does it cost?
The NHS takes over all care provision but there will still be a cost for any social care services provided.
Who provides it?
Who provides the care depends upon the support required, which can be provided bya variety of different professionals including GPs, nurses, support workers, social care practitioners and therapists. A team of nurses can also provide nursing care in the person's home. This gives carers a valuable break from their caring responsibilities.
The following support is available:
- Management of pain or symptoms
- Help to adjust to living with a palliative illness
- Information to help make decisions about care and treatment
- Advice on benefits and financial assistance
- Help dealing with spiritual questions.
There is also a Specialist Palliative Care Team made up of a consultant, Macmillan nurses, a dietician, social care practitioner, a pharmacist and administration staff who have all had additional training to become specialists in palliative care.
Hospice Care for adults is provided at Princess Alice Hospice and Trinity Hospice
Managing someone’s affairs
There may come a time when you have to manage your loved one’s affairs.
People can choose someone to manage their finances and property should they become incapable of doing so and also to make health and welfare decisions on their behalf. The best way to do this is to plan for the future by drawing up a legal agreement known as a Lasting Power of Attorney.
For more information visit managing someone else's affairs
End of Life Care Strategy
Richmond Council and NHS Richmond have developed a local joint End of Life Care strategy in line with recommendations from the Department of Health’s national strategy.
How to get in touch
The starting point should be your own GP who will be able to access all the services available.
You can find out more about Adult Social Care for help with living at home and assessments by following the links.
Please contact me about this service
If you’re still unsure you can contact the Adult Social Care Access Team