Spotlight on: Palliative Care team
Our Palliative Care team offers expert advice and compassionate support, focusing on both symptom management and care for patients facing life-limiting illnesses.
This patient-centred approach extends to families and caregivers, ensuring comprehensive care that addresses not just the medical needs, but the emotional and psychological wellbeing of all involved. The team supports colleagues in all departments and offers both in-patient and out-patient care, including a dedicated breathlessness clinic.
Collaborating closely with the patient’s medical team, the Palliative Care team becomes involved at any stage of the illness, from diagnosis onwards. Their mission is to prioritise the quality of life for patients and their families, working together to navigate the challenges of serious illness.
Dani Ayre, the newly-appointed Matron, shares insights into her role and the team’s holistic approach to patient care.
“I’ve been part of this team for over two years,” she said. “I joined as a Specialist Palliative Care Educator and now, as Matron, my responsibility is to ensure that our team has the resources, skills, and competencies necessary to provide exceptional palliative care. Additionally, I focus on the wellbeing of our team members.
“We comprise nurses, consultants, doctors and educators, all specialising in holistic symptom management and psychological support. Our goal is to engage in meaningful conversations with patients about what matters most to them and to help them live as fully as possible.
“A key aspect of my role is connecting patients with community services, ensuring they have the support needed to live well outside the hospital. However, when they do need to come in, we’re always here to provide support.
“Palliative care is not solely about end-of-life, it’s about addressing all aspects of a patient’s needs—physical, emotional, psychological, spiritual and social—beginning from the moment a life-limiting condition is diagnosed. We support patients throughout various treatments or as they manage progressive conditions like Motor Neurone Disease (MND) or Multiple Sclerosis (MS).
“We cover all 27 wards in the hospital, providing advice and support to any patient who needs us. We also work collaboratively with other hospital teams to ensure the best possible patient experience.
“Looking ahead, we are launching an Advanced Care Planning Clinic at Cromer Hospital sponsored by the N&N Hospital Charity, which is expected to start in late autumn. Our aim is to enhance our patients’ experience, ensuring they feel supported in the way that suits them best.”