Wide variations in the quality of end of life care across the country were revealed in findings of the VOICES survey recently published by the Office of National Statistics.

The VOICES survey is based on the experiences of bereaved people and the quality of care received by their loved ones in their last three months of life.

The VOICES survey showed that:

• Health services in the South West were regularly rated in the top 20 per cent across all areas of care. Bournemouth and Poole and Dorset services were rated particularly highly.
• The North East and North West of the country were rated highly, particularly for quality of care, dignity, respect and support.
• Health services in the North of Tyne scored highly across all areas.
• The poorest ratings across all criteria were given to London health services, which were featured regularly in the bottom 20 per cent.

Download: VOICES survey findings

Dr Martin McShane, Domain Lead (Long Term Conditions), NHS Commissioning Board (NHS England from 01 April 2013) said:

“We are serious about improving end of life care, and to do that we absolutely need to know how people experience end of life care services. The VOICES survey allows us to hear patients and families, and we should listen to them.”