Yesterday, the government published the long-awaited social
care white paper. And here at Macmillan we were really pleased that, in it,
they recognised the importance of free
social care for those at the end of life.
We want all people
with cancer to have the choice to die at home surrounded by their families and
loved ones. So, in the lead up to the
white paper, we have been calling for all patients at the end of life to have
access to free social care. This would mean that all patients could get the
support they need to die at home if they so wish.
73% of cancer patients
would prefer to die at home but, at the moment, only 27% are able to do so. So
it was great to read in the white paper that the government sees “much merit”
in making social care free for people at the end of life and has committed to
assessing this recommendation.
Following this commitment, we will be continuing to push for
free social care at the end of life to become a reality for all patients who
need it. This will ensure that all cancer patients, and their families, get the
care and support they need. Look out for more campaign activity later in the
year and details of how you can get involved.
