Palliative and Supportive Care

The Palliative and Supportive Care Department works alongside the oncology treatment teams to help patients and their families manage the physical and emotional challenges that can arise at any point during cancer care — from diagnosis through active treatment, recovery, and, where appropriate, end-of-life care.

What the department does

Supportive care focuses on quality of life. The team provides specialist assessment and management of symptoms such as pain, fatigue, nausea, breathlessness, and nutritional difficulties. It coordinates psychological support for patients and family members who are adjusting to a cancer diagnosis or coping with the demands of treatment. The team also provides practical guidance on rehabilitation, activity, and returning to everyday life where this is a goal of care.

When supportive care is involved

Supportive care can be provided at the same time as curative treatment — there is no need to wait until active treatment has ended. Early involvement of the palliative and supportive care team has been shown to improve symptom control and quality of life during treatment. The team is also available for patients whose cancer cannot be cured, where the goal of care shifts to maximising comfort and function. Families and carers are included in discussions and in the support that is offered.

Clinical approach

The team works in close collaboration with treating oncologists, nursing teams, and where relevant other specialists such as pain management, nutrition, physiotherapy, and psychology. Care plans are developed to address the patient's individual priorities and adjusted as needs change. Spiritual and cultural considerations are respected throughout.

What patients and families can expect

A palliative and supportive care consultation begins with a careful assessment of your symptoms, concerns, and what matters most to you and your family. The team then develops a plan to address these, and remains involved as your situation evolves. You do not need to wait for a crisis to ask for this support — contact the department or ask your treating team to make a referral at any point during your care.