Philosophy of Care

We are an independent, charitable, voluntary body funded mainly by the

generosity of local people.

We aim:

¨ to provide free, individualised, holistic, evidence and experience based, specialist palliative care for adults who have far advanced progressive and incurable illness, usually cancer.

¨ to accept those referred appropriately by their doctor, according to clinical need, regardless of, but with respect for, race, colour, creed, gender, age or social circumstances.

¨ to help patients to live with their illness, at whatever stage, by addressing their needs at that time, to improve their quality of life.

¨ to promote patient and family centred care, including that of carers and children, and encourage the living of life to the full for those whose life expectancy is shortened.

¨ to neither hasten death nor prolong life beyond its natural time

¨ to offer a point of contact for the bereaved, whilst recognising that most support will usually come from friends, family and others.

¨ to provide a happy and supportive working environment for all staff and volunteers, regardless of role and without discrimination.

¨ to use our education facilities and resources to share knowledge and experience with the wider community of patients, carers, health professionals and organisations, and to develop our own staff.

¨ to continually strive to develop services according to local need and Queenscourt’s philosophy.

To achieve these aims we:

¨ provide inpatient and day services for patients and support services for families and carers

¨ earn the trust and confidence of our patients and families, helping to dispel fear by relaxed, open, communication and respect.

¨ encourage patients and families to retain dignity and control by making informed choices about, and taking an active part in, their care.

¨ involve patients, and their families, in arranging the support they need in the community and within the family unit.

¨ work closely as part of a local integrated palliative care service to ensure a seamless service for patient and family.

¨ continuously develop staff, of all professions, and essential teams of committed volunteers.

¨ foster the wonderfully generous support from those people who give of their time, talents and money to Queenscourt.

¨ maintain the highest standards of clinical, financial and administrative governance.