Fewer than half of Health and Wellbeing Boards have considered needs of dying people, say National Council for Palliative Care

Just 38 (46%) of 83 newly created Health and Wellbeing Boards with public strategies have considered the needs of dying people, according to research published today (Thursday 22 November) by the National Council for Palliative Care.

'What about end of life care: Mapping England’s Health and Wellbeing Boards' reported that many Boards have failed to set out in their strategies how they will improve end of life care, including identifying people who are dying, coordinating their care and bereavement support.

Alzheimer’s Society comment:

'It's hugely disappointing that many of the Health and Wellbeing Boards in England have yet to prioritise end of life care. Every person facing the end of their life deserves to die with dignity, without pain, and in the place of their choosing.

'Dementia is the second highest cause of death in women and fifth highest in men but many people with the condition are not ending their lives the way they wish. It’s vital that Health and Wellbeing Boards consider it their duty to carefully plan care for those who are at the end of their lives.'

Jeremy Hughes
Chief Executive
Alzheimer’s Society