Welcome to HPAL

Grief is a natural response to loss — not only after someone has died, but also when facing a serious illness. This section includes information on understanding grief, recognising when you might need extra help, and where to get support.

A cancer diagnosis can bring uncertainty, fear, and a wide range of physical and emotional challenges. Here you will find information on common symptoms and treatments for people with cancer and a directory of services in your area that can support you.

Everyone wants to be at home for as long as possible. Family carers often ask for more knowledge regarding the best way to care. This section includes information on managing daily care such as how to move people in bed, bed baths, mouthcare and where to get help.

This section includes guidance on talking about death and dying, information on how to discuss and plan wishes at different ages, and a directory of services that may be able to help — both locally and nationally. 

Dementia can gradually change how a person thinks, communicates, and relates to others. This section includes information on dementia at the end of life. Support services in your area are also recommended.

Medical emergencies can be frightening, especially during serious illness. It's natural to feel anxious or uncertain about what to do. Here you will find information on common emergencies, what to expect, and when to seek help.

This section includes information on what to expect in the final days and how to provide comfort. It also covers discussions about resuscitation and what to do after somebody dies.

This section offers clear, compassionate guidance for patients, families, and carers on supporting people with learning disabilities through serious illness including making decisions about future care and coping with bereavement.

Serious illness often raises questions about money, benefits, and legal decisions. Find information on financial support, planning ahead, and understanding your rights. Help and support services in your area are also recommended.

Feelings like sadness, fear, grief, anxiety, and even anger are normal when facing serious illness. Information on managing insomnia, navigating grief, recognising depression and anxiety and where to seek help is included here. 

Pain can affect many aspects of life during serious illness, but there are ways to manage it. Information for patients and carers on understanding different types of pain and pain relief plus common worries about painkillers is included here. 

Information about medication, and contact details of pharmacies which provide end of life medications in your local area.

Serious illness can cause a range of symptoms that affect comfort and quality of life. Find out how to manage common symptoms such as breathlessness, nausea, and confusion and when and where to get help and support.