Most of Britain lacks 24 hour terminal patient care

Research by Sue Ryder, a health and social care charity, has launched a "Dying doesn't work 9 to 5" campaign to draw attention to the lack of provision. The number of deaths in the UK is expected to rise by 17% by 2030.

Heidi Travis, CEO of Sue Ryder, said: "Sue Ryder firmly believe that people who are dying, their carers and their families should be able to access the care they want, when they want. Unfortunately many areas of the country simply don't have the services in place to make this ambition a reality."

Support and advice for the dying should be available 24 hours a day said 82% of people surveyed by Sue Ryder. Home care visits to alleviate symptoms such as pain relief were expected by 86% of those surveyed, and 82% expected support and advice to alleviate symptoms.

In areas where there is 24 hour care, 80% of dying people are able to die in their place of choice. Sue Ryder's support services receive 50% of calls outside 9 to 5 working hours.

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• Topics
• PMI
• healthcare
• NHS/National Health Service
• UK
• Long Term Care