Hospital Team

The Hospital Specialist Palliative Care Team is a consultant-led service offering expert support for patients with complex symptom management and end of life care needs within Salisbury District Hospital.

We are dedicated to ensuring that patients and their families receive the highest standard of compassionate care when it matters most.

All care is delivered with skill, kindness, and compassion, and our Clinical Nurse Specialists (CNSs) are highly trained in managing the complex needs that arise from serious illness. You can expect to be treated with dignity and respect by every member of our team.

Who we are

Our team is made up of:

Consultants
Doctors
Clinical Nurse Specialists

The team has access to the wider specialist palliative care service, enabling them to provide a comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach to palliative care within the hospital setting.

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What we provide

We work closely with the acute trust End of Life Care Team to ensure a consistent and supportive approach throughout a patient’s care journey.

Management of complex symptoms related to serious illness
Emotional and psychological support for patients and families
Ongoing assessment of both patient and family/carer needs
Advice on specialist medications and information about management and side effects
Education and training in palliative and end of life care for hospital staff

Collaborative working with other healthcare professionals to ensure continuity of care
A safe space to share your concerns
High-quality specialist end of life care
Coordinated bereavement support
Future care planning

Who we support

We provide care for people with advanced, progressive, life-limiting illnesses who have complex physical, emotional, or psychological needs. This includes, but is not limited to, patients needing:

Complex pain and symptom management

Emotional and psychological support

Support for families and carers

Referral information

Referrals to the Hospital Specialist Palliative Care Team can be made by:

Acute trust clinical teams
The Community Palliative Care Team, if the patient is already known to our service

Patients under our care may be referred to:

The Community Palliative Care Team upon hospital discharge
The Salisbury Hospice In-Patient Unit
Another service, if the patient is outside of our community catchment area

What to expect

When we first meet with a patient and their family, we carry out a comprehensive assessment-not only of the patient’s needs but also of the support required by family members or carers.

Our approach is collaborative, empathetic, and fully person-centred.

Referral process