The film tells the story of Molly, her daughter Judy and the care package around Molly that allowed her to remain at home and die peacefully.During the 12-minute film, Judy describes how her mother’s condition deteriorated, due to cancer and dementia, and how the support of health and social care services allowed her to stay in her own home until she died.
“I felt involved, I felt listen to”
Molly’s story demonstrates how early conversations make a big difference in ensuring end of life care wishes are met.
It also highlights the positive impact that regular, honest and open communication between healthcare professionals and families can make to a family’s experience of end of life.
“It all worked really well”
The film also shows what ‘joined-up’ care look like and what can happen when health and social care teams work together.
Judy talks about how the GP, social care services, community nurses and local pharmacy worked together to support Molly and her family.
“Molly’s Story shows families the kind of care they should expect while gently explaining the reality of a life slipping away,” explained GP Dr Barbara Barrie, Thames Valley Strategic Clinical Network End of Life Lead.
Dr Barrie explains that there were a number of reasons why the CCGs wanted to produce the film:
“The CCGs in Berkshire West aspire to great end of life care, so we wanted to show what that looks like – for patients and their carers, and also for health and social care professionals.
“There’s also a growing integration agenda for Berkshire West which looks to enhance how patients and their carers navigate services across the health and social care system, particularly for our frail elderly.
“We’ve also used the film in a number of presentations to local health and wellbeing boards and staff training sessions, to show the kind of care that can be achieved.
“We hope many people will benefit from seeing this film and are grateful to Molly’s family for their support and enthusiasm for the project.”
‘A good death – Molly’s story’ was produced by South, Central and West Commissioning Support Unit and can be viewed above, or on YouTube.
