'End of life' care refers to the care of people who are in the final stages of their life and aims to allow them to live in as comfortable and dignified a way as possible until they die. It is about providing support that meets the needs of both the person who is dying and the people close to them.
This care has a strong focus on managing symptoms to keep a person comfortable, helping them to adapt to the changes in their lives, and helping them to cope with the emotional impact of their illness.
End of life care is often also called 'palliative' care.
How much does it cost?
In the last few days of life the NHS takes over most of the care provision meaning that but there will be no cost for this care.
However there may still be a cost for any social care services provided, unless the patient has already been receiving continuing health care.
Local organisations that can help with 'end of life' care
End of life care will be planned with you by your GP and the hospital team who have been supporting you with your condition.
Pembridge Hospice
Pembridge Hospice provide holistic palliative care for people who have been diagnosed with a life-limiting illness.
Pembridge Hospice and Palliative Care
St Charles Hospital
Exmoor Street
W10 6DZ
Royal Trinity Hospice
Royal Trinity Hospice provides skilled, compassionate care and support to people with progressive, life-limiting illnesses and those close to them across central and south west London.
Trinity supports people at home and in the Clapham-based hospice through their outpatient centre and inpatient facilities. All services are provided free of charge to patients and their families.
30 Clapham Common North Side
SW4 0RN
enquires@royaltrinityhospice.london
St John's Hospice
St John's Hospice is an independent charity located within St John's and St Elizabeth Hospital in St John's Wood.
The hospice provides specialised palliative care to patients and their families in central and north west London. People supported include those with cancer, respiratory disease, heart failure and HIV.
60 Grove End Road
NW8 9NH
Financial support
Financial support may be available through a state benefit called a Personal Independence Payment (PIP).