People in the UK are generally living longer and of the 500,000 people who die each year in England, two thirds are over 75 years old. The majority of deaths currently occur following heart disease, cancer, stroke, chronic respiratory disease, neurological disease or dementia.
End of life care services aim to support people approaching the end of their lives to live as well as possible until they die and includes support for their family and carers.
Our vision for end of life care
NHS Eastern and Coastal Kent’s vision for end of life care is for everyone to have the best possible end of life experience, ensuring people are treated, wherever possible:
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As an individual, with dignity and respect
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In familiar surroundings
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In the company of family and/or friends if they wish
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To ensure that their pain and other symptoms are managed as effectively as possible.
For further information, download our end of life care services leaflet.
Useful links
Pilgrims Hospice
Pilgrims Hospice is an independent charity and a provider of specialist palliative care in east Kent.
Wisdom Hospice
The Wisdom Hospice in Rochester provides specialist palliative care for individuals and their families facing the diagnosis of a life threatening disease.
Crossroads
Crossroads is a charity which provides support to carers all over the eastern and coastal Kent area.
Dover District Carers
Dover District Carers’ Support is a registered charity supporting those who care, unpaid, for a relative or a friend who is in need of help because they are ill, frail or have a physical or mental disability.
Carers Support
Cares Support is an independent charity, this charity offers encouragement, information and the emotional support that carers need to make life easier for both the carer and the person being cared for.
Carers UK
Carers UK provide support to carers who are looking after an ill, frail or disabled family member, friend or partner.
Carers Connect
Carers Connect is a web site with lots of friendly and helpful information for carers.
Lasting Post
Lasting Post is a website providing advice on all aspects of a death.
