Children's Palliative Care

Children’s palliative care is about helping children and their families have the best quality of life possible. It is wide-ranging, supportive care for babies, children and young people living with medical complexity and uncertainty, their families and those special to them. 

This all-encompassing care can begin at the point of diagnosis, or whenever it is recognised that a child's condition may lead to medical complexity, uncertainty and a shorter life.              

For some children, the uncertainty that comes with their diagnosis may mean they will get support across many years, including as they grow into young adults and move into adult services.

Children and families may receive palliative care support wherever they spend time and are cared for; at home, in hospital, in community clinics, at school or at a hospice. This helps to make sure care fits around family life and preferences.    

We take a holistic approach, which means we aim to cater not just for children’s physical and medical needs, but their practical, emotional, social, and spiritual wellbeing too. This includes supporting parents, siblings and the wider family.

Palliative care ensures children can enjoy the same things all children need - friendship, play, fun, discovery, and everyday moments that make life meaningful.