Fix palliative care alongside the National Cancer Plan, says leading end of life charity
Comment published
Matthew Reed, chief executive of Marie Curie, said: "Everyone deserves a dignified death, including the thousands who die of terminal cancer every year – but too many people still suffer in their final days because high‑quality palliative care is not there when or where they need it.
"While we welcome the Cancer Plan and its focus on living well with personalised support, as the UK's leading end of life charity we must highlight that urgent action is needed to fix the crisis in end of life care.
"Now developing and delivering the End of Life care Modern Service Framework in full will be essential to making this happen, so everyone with incurable cancer and those who love them can access support whenever they need it, whether at home, in a hospice, or in A&E."
Notes to editor
Notes to editor:
For further information please contact flora.bowen@mariecurie.org.uk
Contact the Marie Curie Press Office: media@mariecurie.org.uk / 0845 073 8699.
Please note, Marie Curie is not a cancer charity but the UK's leading 'end of life charity'. We care for people with any illness they are likely to die from including Alzheimer's (and other forms of dementia), heart, liver, kidney and lung disease, motor neurone disease, Parkinson's, and advanced cancer.
About Marie Curie
Marie Curie is the UK's leading end of life charity.
The charity provides expert end of life care for people with any illness they are likely to die from, and support for their family and friends, in our hospices and where they live. It is the largest charity funder of palliative and end of life care research in the UK, and campaigns to ensure everyone has a good end of life experience. Whatever the illness, we're with you to the end.
If you're living with a terminal illness or have been affected by dying, death and bereavement, Marie Curie can help. Visit www.mariecurie.org.uk or call the free Marie Curie Support Line on 0800 090 2309.
Whatever the illness, wherever you are, Marie Curie is with you to the end.