Around 150 health and care professionals came together on 15 November with the aim of developing palliative and end of life care across north Cumbria.
Supported by Dr Kathryn Mannix, the event at the Greenhill Hotel (Wigton) looked at the ingredients which support a ‘good death’. Those who attended spent time considering the gaps, and how we could better work together to make improvements for patients.
Dr Mannix, author of ‘With The End in Mind’ and ‘Listen’, described the event as “illuminating and inspiring” and spoke positively about the great energy in the room.
The ‘Collaborative palliative care learning event – Reconnecting, Rebuilding and Respecting across North Cumbria’ was developed by leaders from hospice services and NHS teams, and funded by the Strategic Clinical Network and the North Cumbria Integrated Care NHS Foundation Trust (NCIC) Charity Fund.
The event included presentations covering a range of subjects – from how death has changed over the centuries, to a deep dive of the data that shows where needs are growing, and from the medical examiner’s team.
Dr Mannix shared patient stories which identified how better joined-up care could reduce emergency admissions, and ultimately improve the experience of patients.
During the day, it was identified what would make it easier to collaborate, and teams are now working on the next steps.
Specialist palliative care consultant Dr Teresa Storr, who recently retired, said:
“It was a fantastic day with lots of people making connections with services that will be helpful for both professionals and patients. Developing it was a real collaborative piece of work and we are now looking at all the feedback to identify next steps.”
Dr Kathryn Mannix said:
“What’s so impressive is the massive turnout. It’s wonderful people in North Cumbria really want to make it work. I’ve loved it.”
The team are now planning for next year.
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Dr Kathryn Mannix
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