Marie Curie commissioned the Personal Social Service Research Unit at the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) to look at equity in palliative care. The LSE found that a significant minority of people – at least a fifth of everyone who dies – are not receiving the palliative care they need. It also found that some groups are less likely to receive this care than others, and that a quarter of people receive end of life care that their families consider to be poor.
At the same time, the charity published two new policy reports which set out the challenges in delivering care and support for people with a terminal illness – now and in the future. Marie Curie is asking everyone to take part in a new conversation about how we as a society approach terminal illness and is keen to hear the views of social care colleagues. A short animation is available and provides a good overview.
To help play its part, Marie Curie will provide more hands-on care and support services to help people living with any terminal illness, and their families. It has also launched new information and support services for those affected by terminal illness. There is a support line, alongside a 24/7 online community forum and new information resources on topics ranging from symptom management, bereavement, benefits to accessing services.