A NEW way of sharing information has been introduced to Gloucestershire by the NHS to help ensure people get the best clinical care at the end of their lives.

NHS Gloucestershire Clinical Commissioning Group launched the 'Shared Care Record', which should see an improvement to end of life care.

The ‘Shared Care Record for the expected last days of life’ was came into being on Thursday, January 15.

Developed by clinicians and people from healthcare and voluntary organisations across the county, it was written to be used and shared by healthcare professionals in any care setting.

It documents the signs, symptoms, treatment and care the person receives, ensuring that their wishes are followed and that their last days are as comfortable and positive as possible.

GP and clinical lead for end of life care with the CCG Dr Hein Le Roux said: “Communicating clearly and compassionately makes an enormous difference, especially when people are in their final days, weeks or months.

“We hope this new Shared Care Record will help staff to really make a difference through practical support, good communication and compassion to the person at the end of their life as well as to their families and carers.”

The Record was informed by feedback from a six-month trial, led by clinicians, and it focuses on the five key principles outlined in the Priorities of Care for the Dying Person report, published by the Leadership Alliance for the Care of Dying People.

These principles include: recognising that the person may die soon and acting in accordance with their needs and wishes; communicating sensitively; involving the dying person and the people who are important to them; supporting and respecting the needs that are important to the people involved; and following an individual plan of care for symptoms, psychological, social and spiritual support.