HEALTHCARE professionals in Scarborough and across the region are working to raise awareness of palliative care issues during Dying Matters Week which starts on Monday.
Specialist palliative care teams in North Yorkshire and York will be working to raise the profile of the care and support available for people nearing the end of their lives.
Many people do not die as they might have wished to or where they may h
ave wanted. Around 70 per cent of people say they want to die at home, yet around 60 per cent currently die in hospitals.
Less than a third of people have discussed their wishes about dying and only four per cent have written advanced care plans.
Maggie Draper, specialist palliative care team leader said: "Part of our role is to challenge the taboo of talking about death and dying. We help people and their families discuss their future plans and how they can make the most of the time that is left."
The teams are multi-professional and include occupational therapists, dieticians, nurses, physiotherapists, family support workers, doctors and administrative support. The teams also work in partnership with other agencies and services, who provide end- of-life care.
If you feel the specialist palliative care team may be able to help you or someone you know, please ask your GP for advice or alternatively call the Patient Advice and Liaison Team on 0800 06 88 000.
