We would like to say thank you to everyone who attended the event. If you have any questions or feedback, please email nhsnwl.endoflife@nhs.net
Please see the presentation used in the meeting.
The Hounslow Community Specialist Palliative Care consultation event provided an opportunity for residents, healthcare professionals, and stakeholders to share their views on proposed service improvements. The discussions highlighted support for service enhancements while also raising concerns about accessibility, workforce shortages, and culturally sensitive care. This document summarises key feedback received, ensuring that all perspectives are reflected.
Summary of key themes and contributions
1. Access and choice in hospice care
- Many welcomed the flexibility for patients to choose a hospice outside their immediate borough, allowing for care closer to family and personal preferences.
- Questions were raised about whether patients could access hospices outside north west London, such as Princess Alice Hospice in south west London, and whether transport support would be available for those who needed it.
2. Enhanced end-of-life care beds
- Participants supported the introduction of new enhanced end-of-life care beds, recognising their role in bridging the gap between home care and hospice inpatient admission.
- Some worried that these beds, if placed in care homes, might not provide the same level of specialist palliative care as a dedicated hospice setting.
3. Workforce and service capacity
- The expansion of Universal Care Planning (UCP) was seen as an essential step in ensuring coordinated, patient-centred care across different services.
- Attendees expressed frustration over long-standing difficulties in securing presentations and training for UCP, with some professionals reporting that incorrect information persisted on care plans. Workforce shortages were also highlighted as a potential barrier to effective service delivery.
4. Digital and information access
- Participants appreciated the availability of online resources, including the consultation document and service maps, which provided clarity on current specialist palliative care providers.
- Some found navigation of these resources challenging and requested more structured guidance on how to access key consultation materials and FAQs.
5. Cultural sensitivity and inclusivity
- A commitment to improving culturally sensitive care was acknowledged as a vital improvement, particularly for diverse communities in Hounslow.
- Attendees emphasised the need for specific engagement with faith-based and minority ethnic communities to ensure that end-of-life care services were truly inclusive and reflective of local needs.
Frequently asked questions
1. Can patients choose a hospice outside NW London?
Yes. Patients are encouraged to select a hospice based on their needs, family location, and preferences.
2. What are enhanced end-of-life care beds?
These beds provide care for individuals who do not require hospice admission but cannot be adequately supported at home. They offer 24/7 nursing care by professionals with enhanced palliative care knowledge and skills and a weekly ward round by the specialist palliative care team..
3. Where will the enhanced end-of-life care beds be located?
Each borough will determine their placement, considering community health centres, care homes, and nursing facilities.
4. How can healthcare professionals access Universal Care Planning (UCP) training?
Efforts are underway to improve access to UCP training. There is lots of online learning available on the UCP website.
5. How will culturally sensitive care be improved?
Engagement with local faith and minority ethnic groups will be expanded to ensure care models are inclusive and reflect community needs. Training programs for staff will also emphasize cultural competency.