EXPERTS from the NHS and hospices in Worcestershire have discussed the best ways to care for people towards the end of their lives.

The topic formed part of Worcestershire Health and Care NHS Trust’s second members’ event and featured a talk by Dr Ian Douglas, a consultant in palliative medicine.

Around 100 members including trust staff, staff from partner organisations and members of the public attended.

The audience was invited to speak to Dr Douglas and other professionals from different teams within the trust and from the Worcestershire hospices, general practice and Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust.

They answered questions on the approach taken to supporting and caring for people during the final days or hours of their life.

The event coincided with the Government ordering a series of reviews into the Liverpool Care Pathway which was developed in the 1990s to guide health professionals in how to provide quality care during the final stages of someone’s life.

The pathway attracted criticism recently following complaints that it was being introduced for some patients without consent of or discussion with their families.

Dr Douglas said: “End of life care is a really big and live issue at the moment and it is something which is close to the hearts of professional, patients and their families.”

The event is the second held by the trust for its members, of which there are now over 11,000. To find out more and to complete a membership form visit worcestershirehealth.nhs.uk/whct-ft/ or contact 01905 681425.