The importance of a well trained workforce to support the needs of those approaching the end of their life and the needs of their carers is readily acknowledged, yet relatively few healthcare professionals are specifically trained to manage palliative and end of life care. Access to suitable education is often patchy and many health and social care providers have difficulty accessing relevant education and training. This paper reflects on a Palliative and End of Life project for assistant practitioners being delivered in the North West of England.

Joanne Smith BA Hons, MSc, PGCE, Programme Leader, Foundation Degree, Health and Social Care, University of Bolton

Trish Brown RGN, PGDPNS, MA Gerontology Work Based Education Facilitator, UHSM Academy

Article accepted for publication: February 2012