On this page, we explain what palliative and end of life care is, where and when it’s given and how to get it.
What is palliative care?
Palliative care aims to help people achieve the best quality of life for as long as possible.
It includes preventing and managing pain and other symptoms – sometimes for a few years. It also involves emotional, social and spiritual support for people, their families and loved ones.
This is called a holistic approach, because it deals with the person as a “whole”, not just the illness or symptoms.
Did you know: Palliative care is not just for people with cancer. It is for anyone with a life-limiting illness.
A life-limiting illness is one that cannot be cured and is sometimes referred to as a terminal illness. This can include cancer but also includes any condition where the person is not expected to get better, for example chronic lung disease, heart failure, dementia, or chronic kidney disease.
Where does palliative care happen?
Palliative care can happen wherever you are. It can take place in your own home or in a care home. It can also take place in a hospice or hospital.
Did you know: Hospice care is free.
Hospice care includes care in your home, gym sessions, help with emotional and spiritual needs, helping family and loved ones, help with accessing benefits… the list goes!
Individual wishes and what matters most to people are important when considering where to have palliative care. Please see our Advance Care Planning pages to find out more.
Did you know: Palliative care can last several years. It can be ongoing or just address specific needs at a specific time e.g. managing a particular symptom.
When should I access palliative care?
The earlier someone receives palliative care, the better.
Palliative care given early can help people to make the most of life, in the way that they want to.
‘End of life care’ refers to palliative care in the last 12 months of life.
Did you know: Palliative care can happen alongside other treatment that aims to treat an illness or prolong life, for example chemotherapy or kidney dialysis.
Who provides palliative care?
There are people who specialise in palliative care, such as Clinical Nurse Specialists and Specialist Doctors. Others, such as your GP, have palliative care skills as part of their broader role.
Did you know: Palliative care isn’t just provided in hospices—and not everyone needs a specialist team. GPs, nurses, and other healthcare staff are trained to provide palliative support in hospitals, care homes, and at home.
How do I access palliative care?
Most care is organised based on where your GP is, which is usually in the same borough you live in.
Please see our care in your area pages and click on the borough where you live to find out more.
Palliative care is provided by different organisations (such as hospices or NHS trusts), depending on where you live.
What is End of Life Care?
End of life care involves treatment, care and support for people who are thought to be in the last year of life. Palliative care includes end of life care.
Please do not hesitate to ask for support. There are people there to help you, whoever you are, wherever you are and whatever stage of illness you or a loved one is at. You can also find further information in our helpful resources pages.
Palliative care will be part of a neighbourhood health service model. Read more about Introducing Integrated Neighbourhood Teams in South East London.