Londoners to champion the needs of terminally ill people and their families

Pan London End of Life Alliance Lay Representatives Board Established

Londoners are set to champion the needs of terminally ill people, their families and carers, as health and social care leaders begin to tackle inequalities in end of life care across London.

The Pan London End of Life Alliance, a community interest group, led in partnership by Marie Curie, NHS England (London) and ADASS (London), has established as its first priority a Lay Representatives Board. The Board, which convened for the first time today (15 May) will help shape the programme of activities needed to significantly improve end of life care services across London.

The Lay Representatives Board is made up of individuals from existing patient and public engagement organisations across London and those who also have experience of living with or caring for someone with a terminal illness.

Brian Andrews, Chair of the new Lay Representatives Board of the Pan London End of Life Alliance, said: “We know the challenges that Londoners face when living with and caring for someone with a terminal illness. It can be a confusing and highly stressful time, particularly when support and services are poor. Equally, it can be a hugely comforting experience when the right support and services are in place and well co-ordinated.”

“The health and social care leaders of the Pan London End of Life Alliance recognise that their efforts to improve end of life care services in London need to be shaped by insights from those with experience of living with or caring for someone with a terminal illness. By learning from those of us with direct experience of end of life care services, we hope services will improve and meet people’s needs, regardless of where they live, or their circumstances.”

The Pan London End of Life Alliance, which is a community interest group, is led in partnership by Marie Curie, NHS England (London), and ADASS (London). It aims to bring together the efforts underway across London and secure significant improvements in the provision of high quality end of life care consistently across the capital. The Alliance has an inclusive membership with representation from across health, social care and voluntary sectors.

For more information on the Alliance or to get involved, email Meeta.Kathoria@mariecurie.org.uk or telephone us on 020 7599 7277.

-ENDS-