Palliative care treatment

Palliative care is often used in the treatment of cancer.

The information on this page will help you to find out what it is, who provides it and how you can access it.

What is palliative care?

Palliative care is used to improve quality of life when cancer can't be cured. 

The palliative team may be involved in your care at any time from when you're diagnosed. You may be referred to them for:

• Management of difficult symptoms like pain or sickness
• Emotional support for you and your family
• End of life care

Palliative care can be used alongside other cancer treatments to control your cancer or on its own.

It's important to understand that having palliative care doesn't necessarily mean you're going to die soon. You may have it for many months or years.

Who provides palliative care?

Palliative care is focused on teamwork, helping you and your family manage as things change.

Palliative care teams are made up of specialist doctors and nurses, social workers, dieticians, pharmacists, and a range of therapists.

They work in partnership with your GP, hospital doctors and district nurses to assess your situation, advise treatment and care for you.

Services may be provided at home, in hospital, or specialist in-patient units including hospices.

How to access palliative care

Referrals to the palliative care team are usually made by your doctor, a member of your healthcare team at the hospital or your GP practice.

Let your doctor or specialist nurse know if you're struggling with symptoms so they can refer you at the right time.

Your first experience of palliative care support may be a visit from a specialist nurse, either based in hospital, or in the community.

Maggie's is here with you

Being told your cancer can't be cured can raise many different emotions.

Our Cancer Support Specialists and psychologists are here listen to your concerns and help you find the information and help that's right for you.

You can also meet people in a similar situation around our kitchen tables or join courses and workshops to help you manage.  

• Find your nearest Maggie's centre – you don't need an appointment, just come in

Last review: Oct 2021 | Next review: Oct 2022