Dignity Action Day

Today, on Dignity Action Day (Wednesday 1 February), we are highlighting the importance of talking about end of life care.

Dignity Action Day raises awareness of the importance of ensuring all patients, including those in their final days of life, are treated as individuals and given choice, control and a sense of purpose.

Our Community End of Life Care services are rated as Outstanding by the Care Quality Commission.

The team of palliative care specialists support patients to talk about their passing with loved ones and work with community nurses and local hospices to ensure their wishes can be met wherever possible.

As well as caring for the physical needs of patients, specialist palliative care nurses also support the psychological needs of patients nearing the end of their life and their family members.

Tracy Reed, Clinical Lead for End of Life Care at EPUT, said: “Sadly, death is something that affects us all and those we love. When that time comes we only get one chance to get things right so we encourage patients approaching the end of their life to have those difficult discussions with loved ones about what’s important to them so that, together, we can work to support their choices.

“Our team offers support on having those conversations as well as discussions about care, where patients wish to die, making a will, funeral choices and building memories for loved ones.”