What is hospice care?

Hospice care is about making sure someone who is very ill feels comfortable and cared for. It's not about trying to cure the illness anymore. Instead, it focuses on:1 

  • Managing pain and other symptoms 
  • Providing emotional support 
  • Helping families cope together 
  • Making sure the person feels dignified and loved 

The word "hospice" might sound scary, but it's actually about comfort and care. Think of it as a team of caring people who want to help make things easier and more comfortable for you and your loved one.1 

Where does hospice care happen? 

Hospice care can happen in different places. You can choose what feels right for your family. 

At home

Some people prefer to stay at home where they feel most comfortable. At home, you're surrounded by familiar things and the people you love. A team of nurses and doctors will visit regularly to help with:2 

  • Managing medicines 
  • Washing and dressing 
  • Providing special equipment like a hospital bed 
  • Supporting the family 

In a hospice building

Hospices are calm, welcoming places that focus on comfort and wellbeing, including support for caregivers. 

Here’s what hospices provide:2 

  • A homely environment: Often decorated to feel less clinical than a hospital 
  • Flexible schedules: Visiting times, meals, and treatments that work around your loved one 
  • Symptom relief: Care to help them feel as comfortable as possible 
  • Respite care: Offering short stays to give carers a break 

In a hospice building

Sometimes people need to stay in hospital, especially if they need specific medical care. Some hospitals have special palliative care wards where the staff focus on comfort and symptom control. These are designed to feel more like a comfortable home than a hospital by having features like:2 

  • Single rooms for privacy 
  • A kitchen 
  • A day room or lounge 

Who provides hospice care?

Hospice care involves a whole team of caring professionals:3 

  • Doctors who specialise in comfort care 
  • Nurses who visit regularly and are available 24/7 
  • Social workers who help with practical issues 
  • Counsellors who provide emotional support 
  • Chaplains who offer spiritual care if wanted 

This team works together to make sure all needs are met – physical, emotional, and spiritual. 

What support is available for families?

Hospice care isn't just about the person who is ill. It also helps families cope with this difficult time, providing:3 

  • Emotional support 
  • Help with dealing with grief and worry 
  • Counselling  
  • Support groups where you can talk to other people in similar situations 

How to access hospice care

Accessing hospice care usually begins with a conversation with your loved one’s doctor or nurse. They can explain what services are available in your area, make referrals to hospice teams, and help you understand what to expect. They can also connect you with local support groups where you can talk to others who are in a similar situation.1

It's important to know that you don’t have to wait until the very end to seek help. Hospice care can begin as soon as it’s clear that comfort and quality of life are, or will become, areas of concern.  

Making the decision

Deciding when and where to receive hospice care is a personal choice that can be made by your loved one with support from the family and healthcare team. Working together helps ensure the best care for everyone involved. It’s important to:2 

  • Talk openly with your loved one about their wishes 
  • Ask questions until everybody understands the options 
  • Take time to think about what feels right for your loved one and the wider family 

Remember, you're not alone

Making decisions about hospice care can feel overwhelming but remember that many families face similar choices. There are people and organisations ready to help you understand your options and support you through this difficult time. 

Hospice care is about dignity, comfort, and love. It's about making sure your loved one feels cared for and that your family has the support you need. While this is a challenging time, hospice care can help ensure that these final weeks or months are filled with as much comfort and peace as possible. 

References

  1. Hospice UK. What is hospice care? Available at: www.hospiceuk.org/information-and-support/your-guide-hospice-and-end-life-care/im-looking-hospice-care/what-hospice#content-menu-1780 [Accessed September 2026]. 
  2. Cancer Research UK. Choosing where to die. Available at: www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/coping/dying-with-cancer/making-plans/choosing-where-to-die [Accessed September 2026]. 
  3.  Hospice UK. What services does a hospice offer? Available at: www.hospiceuk.org/information-and-support/your-guide-hospice-and-end-life-care/im-looking-hospice-care/what-services [Accessed September 2026].