End of life care
We aim to treat people with dignity and respect in their preferred place of care, and ensure they receive high standards of care at the end of their life. End of life care is for anyone with an advanced progressive illness, such as cancer, cardiovascular disease, or neurological conditions.
Care includes managing pain and symptoms, as well as psychological, social and spiritual support to help achieve the best quality end of life care for patients and their families. We can also:
- help patients to adjust to life with a terminal illness
- provide information to help them make decisions about care and treatment
- give advice on benefits and financial assistance
Towards the end of life, the NHS takes over care provisions, but there will still be a cost for any social care services provided. Care can be provided by a variety of different professionals, depending on what support is required. This includes doctors, support workers, social workers and therapists.
A team of nurses can provide nursing care in a patient’s home, which gives carers a valuable break. Some care homes also provide specialist end of life care.
Other help available
- Your doctor will be able to help you access all available services. Find your nearest doctor online.
- The North London Hospice is a registered charity providing specialist end of life care for patients living in Enfield, Barnet and Haringey. Care takes place in patients’ homes where a team of nurses, doctors, physiotherapists and social workers provide support and advice. It can also be at the inpatient unit, which offers help with pain control and care in the final days of life. Support is given to families, friends and carers throughout, and bereavement support is available up to 14 months after a patient has died.
- The National Council for Palliative Care is a charity for palliative, end of life and hospice care in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. They work with government, as well as health and social care staff to improve end of life care.
- Dying Matters promotes public awareness of dying, death and bereavement. They encourage people to talk about their wishes towards the end of their lives with friends, family and loved ones.