This week, we attended the launch of the Independent Commission for Palliative and End of Life Care. As a member of the Commission, we are committed to tackling the significant disparities in access to sustainable, high quality palliative care for seriously ill children and young people across the UK.
Currently, across the UK there is a postcode lottery in access to high quality children’s palliative care that meets national quality standards. Of particular concern is children and families’ access to end of life care at home, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Shockingly, only a third of local NHS areas in England are able to offer this level of care.
This lack of equitable access leaves many families without the support they need during the most difficult times. By bringing together voices from across the sector, the Commission aims to develop actionable solutions to ensure every child and family can access the care and support they need, no matter where they live.
Nick Carroll, Chief Executive of Together for Short Lives, highlighted the urgency of this issue, saying:
“In a modern society, it is shocking that some seriously ill children and young people are unable to access the sustainable, high-quality children’s palliative care they need simply because of where they live. This Commission provides a vital opportunity to acknowledge and address the workforce crisis, funding shortages, and a lack of leadership and accountability which are driving this postcode lottery.”
We are determined to use our role in the Commission to advocate for changes that will improve the lives of children with life-limiting conditions and their families. This includes ensuring sufficient investment in children’s palliative care services, addressing critical gaps in the workforce, and holding local NHS bodies and councils accountable for delivering equitable care.