Access to Palliative Care Bill

This bill creates a legal duty for the NHS and local authorities to provide palliative care services. Palliative care means medical care focused on relieving pain and symptoms for people with serious illnesses, rather than trying to cure them. The bill requires health services to assess what palliative care is needed in their area and make sure these services are available. It covers care in hospitals, hospices, care homes and people's own homes. The government says this will ensure everyone who needs end-of-life care can access it regardless of where they live. The bill sets standards for palliative care and requires regular reporting on how well services are meeting people's needs. It applies to England and gives similar powers to devolved governments in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

• 1Creates a legal duty for NHS and councils to provide palliative care services
• 2Requires local assessment of palliative care needs in each area
• 3Covers care in hospitals, hospices, care homes and people's homes
• 4Sets national standards for end-of-life care services
• 5Requires regular reporting on how well services meet patient needs