The Scottish Government’s Strategic Framework for Action on Palliative Care has pledged that all patients in Scotland will be offered high quality end of life palliative care, regardless of their age, socio-economic status, diagnosis or where they live.
The framework is backed by £3.5 million of Scottish Government funds and aims to create a more open discussion of death, bereavement and end of life care. It addresses the need for patients to have the chance to discuss their end of life care before their condition deteriorates. Health professionals who work closely with patients and families will be offered improved training to help them give better palliative care.
The proposals have been met with support from various charities and health campaigners.
Kenny Steele, Chair of the Scottish Partnership for Palliative Care, said, “The Scottish Partnership for Palliative Care welcomes the commitment of the Scottish Government to improving palliative and end of life care for the many tens of thousands of people in Scotland who need it every year. We look forward to working with our 50-plus member organisations and the Scottish Government to maximise the impact of this strategy.”
Richard Meade, the Head of Policy and Public Affairs for Marie Curie in Scotland, said, “Marie Curie welcomes the publication of the Strategic Framework for Action on Palliative and End of Life Care and its commitment to ensure that everyone in Scotland has access to palliative care when they need it. We now look forward to working with the Scottish Government, NHS Boards, Local Authorities and other partners to deliver on this ambition.”
Legal Support for Older People
Age UK, the largest UK charity dedicated to raising awareness of the issues faced by elderly people, reported that there are now 11.4 million people aged 65 or over in the UK. The population is predicted to continue to age with the number of people aged 60 or over expected to pass the 20 million mark by 2030. With an ageing population, there is a great need for improved end of life support.
Thinking about the end of your life and what will happen after you die can be incredibly difficult. It can be uncomfortable to bring these issues up with family members. However, dealing with these matters now can make things much easier for yourself and your family, should you need care in the future.
Power of Attorney
Power of Attorney lets you plan what powers you would like to transfer to another person in the case where you become unable to handle your own affairs. No one has automatic power to make decisions on your behalf should you become unable to. Having the PoA prepared in advance could save a lot of the money, time and distress that is often involved in going to court to transfer powers.
Family Law Inverness
Family Law Inverness is run on behalf of Kathleen McCarthy. Kathleen has years of experience in working with families to draft PoAs and handles all enquiries with sensitivity and confidentiality.
Call us on 01463898650 or contact us online.
