Palliative end of life care

Palliative care is an approach that improves the quality of life of patients and their families facing the problems associated with life limiting illness. End of life care is an important part of palliative care. It involves treatment, care and support for people who are nearing the end of their life. It helps you live as comfortably as possible by managing physical symptoms and getting emotional support for you, your family and friends.

Palliative and end of life care are integral aspects of the care provided to those living with, and dying of, any advanced, progressive or incurable condition.

We work in partnership with voluntary and national organisations to provide specialist palliative and end of life care and support. You may already have been given information on, or referred to, these services if you have been diagnosed with a life-limiting illness and are getting palliative or end of life care.

Marie Curie

Marie Curie provides specialist care and support in your own home for people living with any terminal illness. Your GP or District Nurse can refer you to this service.

The Marie Curie Support Line 0800 090 2309 provides practical or clinical information and emotional support. Calls are free Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm and Saturdays, 11am to 5pm.

Macmillan Cancer Support

Macmillan Cancer Support help find practical and emotional support at the end of life and help friends and family through bereavement.

They have a support line 0808 808 00 00 providing confidential support to people living with cancer and their loved ones. Calls are free, 7 days a week, 8am to 8pm.

NHS inform

NHS inform is Scotland’s national health information service. It has information about palliative care, support and rights. Including symptom control, talking to people about your condition, practical help, planning for the future and preparing for death and bereavement.

Non-specialist care and support

Your GP or District Nurse may also refer you for assessment to our non-specialist care and support services. These services are coordinated by Aberdeenshire Health and Social Care Partnership. They are provided in the community and include:

For more information about these services, or to make a referral, please call us on 03456 08 12 06.

Privacy notice

Our Adult and Older People Services privacy notice (PDF 297KB) explains how we may use your data in providing a palliative care service.