End of life and palliative care in East of England: How your views could shape future policy
Do you have 15 minutes to spare? Your thoughts on end of life care could help shape the health policies for people in the East of England.
People from Peterborough who have experience of living with terminal conditions, or with a loved one who has gone through end of life palliative care, have been asked to take part in a survey to help identify what is best practice, and what can be improved, in a bid to improve the service for future generations.
The anonymous survey has been created by Marie Curie, in partnership with the NHS in the East of England, and is for people affected by any condition which may lead to them losing their life.
It only takes 15 minutes to fill out, and for those affected, there’s a helpline set up to allow them to talk through any memories or emotions the survey brings out.
But many people will find it a positive experience, as this woman explained: “I feel very grateful to have had the opportunity to talk with the team at Marie Curie about what my sister went through at the end of her life. It has not only helped me to process things a little, but also given me the opportunity to speak out for her – something I was not able to do at the time. I hope my contribution to this study can ensure more people receive the dignity and respect we all deserve at end of life.”
All the opinions shared will be compiled and help form a series of recommendations to those in charge of palliative and end of life care in the region.
Marie Curie, which is there for anyone with any health condition that is terminal, helped61,800 people last year, through its online support and information services, its at-home care service, and its hospice network.
Marie Curie East of England Associate Director Strategic Partnerships & Services Jonathan Clemo said: “We’ll be sharing the findings with those responsible for palliative and end of life care in the East of England, calling on them to incorporate a set of new recommendations into their strategies, plans, and service offerings.
“Ultimately, by taking part in the survey, you will be helping to ensure that more people get the best possible care and support at the end of life, reflecting what’s most important to them.”
To take part you must be over 18. The survey is open until September 30.
Completing the survey requires participants to reflect on their own experiences of living with terminal illness and accessing care – or in the case that they are sharing experiences of someone who has died, a bereavement. This may bring up experiences that may be upsetting. If you need any support after completing the survey, you can contact the free Marie Curie Support Line on 0800 090 2309. It is open from Monday to Friday 8am-6pm, and Saturday 11am-5pm.
To complete it please click here or visit www.facebook.com/MarieCurieEast or google Marie Curie East of England.