Palliative and end of life care: a practical family guide
Part of Care choices
By CareCircle Family editorial team · Published 2026-09-26 · Last reviewed 2026-09-26 · 4 min read
Palliative care aims to help someone live as well as possible with an illness that can't be cured, supporting comfort and emotional needs. End of life care is part of this, usually in the last months of life. Care can be at home, in hospital, a hospice or a care home.
Who provides it
GPs, district nurses, hospice teams and specialist palliative teams may all be involved. Charities such as Marie Curie also offer information and support.
Talking about wishes
It can help to ask, gently and when the person is ready, what matters to them and where they would like to be cared for. Advance care planning is led by the person and their clinicians.
Practical coordination
Keep one list of who to call day and night, and write down what the care team has told you so family members get the same information.
Official guidance and further reading
Check these organisations for the latest rules and guidance for your location.
Frequently asked questions
- Does palliative care mean someone is dying soon?
- Not necessarily. Some people receive palliative care for a long time. Ask the care team what it means for your family.
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