End of Life Care | Person centred palliative care

At Balkerne Gardens Trust, we understand that end of life care, also known as palliative care, is deeply personal and can affect people of all ages. Our focus is on comfort, dignity, and honouring each person’s wishes.

Person centred care is pivotal to everything we do.

We know that conversations about the end of life can be difficult, especially when someone appears well. However, early discussion and advanced planning can bring reassurance, clarity, and peace of mind for residents and their families.

We work closely with residents and their loved ones to understand each person’s preferences for their final days. By planning ahead, we are often able to avoid unnecessary and distressing hospital admissions, enabling residents to remain in the place they call home.

Our commitment to exemplary end of life care is reflected in our daily practice, from detailed handovers, regular reviews with residents and families, to the ongoing professional development of our teams. We continually review our approach to ensure our care remains responsive, compassionate, and aligned with each resident’s needs.

At every stage, we are here to provide reassurance, expertise, and a sense of belonging. We continue to support families after their loved one has died, offering practical guidance and emotional reassurance during a very difficult time.

We are proud to be accredited by the Gold Standards Framework (GSF), a national recognition of excellence in end of life care. This accreditation reflects our strong partnerships with local GPs, Integrated Care Boards, and specialist teams, ensuring seamless and coordinated care.

Accredited by the Gold Standards Framework (GSF) for end of life care

Work closely with local GPs, Integrated Care Boards, and specialists

Provide excellent person-centred care

Honour and carry out each resident’s final wishes

Adapt to changing needs with skill and sensitivity

Offer compassionate, practical and emotional support to families

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Find out more about our caring and supportive environment.

“The standard of care in the last week of mum’s life was exceptional“

Relative

Cheviot Nursing Home

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FAQs

Our end of life care ensures a person’s physical needs are met with warmth, comfort and dignity during the final hours, days, or months of a person’s life, helping them experience peace, and dying well.

Our support can help ease worries and promote emotional wellbeing for both the person and their loved ones, which can include spiritual care, and practical assistance.

End of life care is appropriate for anyone approaching the last phase of their life, regardless of their age, condition, or diagnosis.

We offer pain and symptom management, emotional and spiritual support, help with daily activities, and practical guidance for both residents and families.

Yes, we encourage meaningful time together and support families in being present as much as they wish.

Yes, we do everything we can to accommodate families during this time.

Our team provides emotional support, clear communication, and practical guidance and signposting throughout the process.

Yes, residents can be admitted and receive end of life care here.

Please contact our team, who will discuss the support available, and guide you through the process.