Marie Curie urges Bedfordshire people to have their say on end of life care

Are you living with a terminal illness, caring for someone who has one, or had experience of end of life care? Your views will help Marie Curie, in partnership with the NHS, improve palliative provision in the East of England.

A quick 15 minute online survey could see the views of residents in Bedfordshire helping formulate provision for end of life care across the East of England.

Marie Curie, which is the country’s leading end of life charity, is working in partnership with NHS East of England, to consult with people and their loved ones about their own experiences. These anonymous responses will help improve provision moving forward.

‘My sister’s voice was heard’

One woman, whose sister had a terminal illness, says taking part in the survey was helpful to her personally, as well as playing an important part. The Bedfordshire woman said: “I feel very grateful to have had the opportunity to talk with the team at Marie Curie about what my sister went through at the end of her life. It has not only helped me to process things a little, but also given me the opportunity to speak out for her – something I was not able to do at the time. I hope my contribution to this study can ensure more people receive the dignity and respect we all deserve at end of life.”

Marie Curie helps people with support and information, in home expert care and hospice care. Last year 61,800 people received their help.

Now, their online survey wants to hear first-hand experiences from people over the age of 18 who are either living with a terminal condition, or who have experience through a loved one. The survey should take less than 15 minutes to complete.

Jonathan Clemo from Marie Curie said that with help from people affected by terminal illness they could prioritise areas for improvement, but also spotlight things that are working well. These findings will be shared with the NHS, and together it will help influence recommendations for end of life policies and service.

He added: “Ultimately, by taking part in the survey, you will be helping to ensure that more people get the best possible care and support at the end of life, reflecting what’s most important to them.”

You may find reflecting on your experiences of your own or a loved one’s treatment and care difficult. You can contact the free Marie Curie Support Line on 0800 090 2309. It is open from Monday to Friday 8am-6pm, and Saturday 11am-5pm.

You have approximately four weeks to take part, with the closing date at the end of September. To complete it please click here or visit Mare Curie East England or google Marie Curie East England.