In early 2025 NHSGGC began the next stage of its journey towards improving palliative and end of life care within NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde. Key to this being active engagement and involvement with a wide range of stakeholders culminating in an Accelerated Design Event (ADE) aimed at reflecting on current experiences of services and identify how we develop our services for the future.
Lived Experience Volunteers played a key role both before the event, and on the day, contributing invaluable insights from adult and paediatric services. Their perspectives shaped the discussions on how NHSGGC should deliver palliative care. To ensure the event was well-informed, a period of engagement was conducted across NHSGGC prior to the event to discuss and capture the experiences of people. During this time, stories of palliative care from carers and families were collected, shedding light on the patient and family viewpoints.
Over 200 stories were shared, offering those involved in developing the ADE a deeper understanding of how palliative and end-of-life care was experienced. Additionally, eight individual interviews were conducted, which helped inform case studies shared during the event.
The key themes identified for adult services included the necessity for pain-free end-of-life experiences, dignity for patients, and support for families from healthcare professionals throughout the process. These themes underscored the importance of ensuring patients are fully informed, involved, and considered in their care, receiving adequate pain relief to allow them to die with dignity and respect in their preferred location.
As the narrative unfolded, the collective efforts and shared insights of the volunteers, stakeholders, and community members painted a vivid picture of the future of palliative care within NHSGGC, aiming to improve health and wellbeing and reduce health inequalities across Renfrewshire and beyond.
“That the end comes pain free and with care and dignity and family have support of professionals throughout that process.”
“It is important that patients are fully informed, involved, considered and given enough pain relief to allow them to die where they want with dignity and respect.”
