Today, the King’s Speech set out the UK Government’s legislative agenda for the coming parliamentary session, including plans to modernise the NHS and reform the special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) system in England. Reacting to the speech, Nick Carroll, Chief Executive of Together for Short Lives said:
“The new parliamentary session presents a renewed opportunity for the government to help families of children with serious illness access high quality children’s palliative care, when and where they need it. Right now, parents and siblings are left feeling isolated and alone and children are missing out on life-changing support.
“Despite a clear legal duty on integrated care boards, provision remains inconsistent and, in many areas falls short of national quality standards. The forthcoming all-age palliative and end of life care modern service framework provides a huge opportunity to strengthen accountability within local health systems. While the King’s Speech contained no explicit mention of children’s palliative care, ministers must use the forthcoming NHS Modernisation Bill as a vehicle to strengthen the system for families of children with serious illness.
“The government should also use the Education for All Bill to improve support for children and young people with serious illness, many of whom have complex needs. Ministers must listen to families and deliver a more inclusive, joined up and responsive system though the legislation it is proposing.
The forthcoming all-age palliative and end of life care modern service framework provides a huge opportunity to strengthen accountability within local health systems. While the King’s Speech contained no explicit mention of children’s palliative care, ministers must use the forthcoming NHS Modernisation Bill as a vehicle to strengthen the system for families of children with serious illness.
Nick Carroll, Chief Executive, Together for Short Lives