The University of Worcester and St Richard’s Hospice today announced a mutual Declaration of Intent to develop a local Centre of Excellence for Palliative and End of Life Care.
The University’s Vice Chancellor and Chief Executive, Professor David Green, and Mark Jackson, Chief Executive of the Worcestershire-based St Richard’s Hospice, signed the declaration at the 9th Annual Worcestershire Palliative Care Conference.
The agreement cements the relationship between the two organisations and articulates a commitment to develop a centre for best practice and research in palliative care and long term conditions. It will be a regional, national and international resource.
After signing the agreement, Professor Green said: “As people become terminally ill, approach death and die it is more important than ever that their care is sensitive and effective.
“The hospice movement in Britain is internationally renowned and respected for the brilliant work done by so many for those in their last months and days of life.
“The University is deeply committed to helping people realise their potential throughout their lives. We also recognise the importance of dignity in death and compassionate palliative care. This Centre will help us develop our work with our partners for the good of the people in this region and, we hope, many further afield.”
Mr Jackson added: “It’s an enormous privilege to work alongside such an enthusiastic and forward-thinking university.
“We’ve been linked with the Institute of Health and Society for a number of years now, and we have been working with Louise Jones, Strategic Lead for Health and Wellbeing and Dr Jan QuallingtonHead of the Institute of Health and Society about establishing a Centre of Excellence.”
This arrangement is only the second of its kind in the country. Mr. Jackson explains: “This idea has already been established in the East Midlands between LOROS Hospice and De Montfort University, and we are delighted to be able to set up this centre for the West Midlands region.”
Dr Jan Quallington, Head of the Institute of Health and Society, said: “We are delighted to be part of this innovative and valuable initiative. St Richard’s is already an outstanding care facility.
“The new centre will provide an opportunity to research and develop end of life care and to share this information with other partners and organisations locally and beyond. It will ensure the very best care and support for people who are nearing the end of their life.”
St Richard’s Hospice cares for patients and families in Worcestershire living with cancer and other life-threatening illnesses, helping around 2,300 people every year.
For more details visit the University of Worcester website
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