This quality standard covers care for adults (aged 18 and over) who are approaching the end of their life. This includes people who are likely to die within 12 months, people with advanced, progressive, incurable conditions and people with life-threatening acute conditions. It also covers support for their families and carers.

Quality Statement 14 covers care after death and bereavement support.

‘People closely affected by a death are communicated with in a sensitive way and are offered immediate and ongoing bereavement, emotional and spiritual support appropriate to their needs and preferences.’

It outlines the responsibilities of service providers, health and care workers and commissioners in making sure this provision is in place.

Published by: National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence