Lewis-Manning Hospice Care made the call following a guest lecture held at Bournemouth University on February 12, which focused on existing challenges and opportunities in palliative care at both local and national levels.
The lecture was delivered by Professor Bee Wee CBE, former national clinical director for end-of-life care at NHS England, who drew on her national experience to advise on how palliative care must adapt.
Dr Lucy Pollock with Clare Gallie, the CEO of Lewis-Manning Hospice Care. (Image: Bournemouth University)
The guest lecture brought together healthcare professionals, students and community partners.
Clare Gallie, chief executive of Lewis-Manning Hospice Care, said: “Hospice care plays a vital role within Dorset’s health system.
“It’s important that we continue to share learnings, question assumptions, and work alongside our regional healthcare partners to strengthen how care is delivered locally.”
Ms Gallie described the event at Bournemouth University as a chance to foster collaboration.
She said: “It’s critical that we work together to ensure patients receive the right support, at the right time, in the place that matters most to them.”
Other speakers included Dr Lucy Pollock, a geriatric medicine consultant and author, and Ashley Spriggs, a principal academic in nursing.
Both addressed evolving approaches to palliative care.
Lewis-Manning is Dorset’s independent hospice charity that supports more than 1,200 local people each year.
Its team delivers care at home, virtually, and via community hubs, working closely with GPs, hospitals, and voluntary sector partners.