"It's a nightmare scenario" - death, dying and financial hardship
Published on: 11 September 2024
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An estimated 90,000 people die in poverty every year in the UK [1]. But the significant financial and social needs of this group and their loved ones are not being met.
This report shares real-world experiences to highlight the needs of people experiencing financial hardship at the end of life, and their loved ones. It sets out recommendations for governments, local health systems and services to improve their experiences.
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“It has a profound effect to have no money and be terminally ill. You’d think I might as well end my life and it’s a nightmare scenario.” – focus group participant
About the report
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People experiencing financial hardship have pronounced social and financial needs at the end of life. In order for them to have a good death, these needs must be met. But oftentimes they aren't.
This report highlights the perspectives and experiences of people facing financial hardship at the end of life, and their loved ones. It finds that the support available to them is inadequate, inaccessible and inconsistent.
The report also incudes insights from professionals working in health, care and financial support. They highlight gaps in the health, care and welfare system.
In the report, we make key recommendations to governments, health systems and services. We suggest ways these institutions can improve experiences at the end of life for people facing financial hardship.
Terminology
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Research and policy work relevant to this report use a variety of terms and definitions such as 'poverty' (deep, relative and absolute), 'low socioeconomic status' and 'deprivation'.
We chose to frame our work around 'financial hardship' to capture the broadest range of experiences possible.
Download the report
"It's a nightmare scenario" - Death, Dying and Financial Hardship
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It's a nighmare scenario - death, dying and financial hardship.pdf
This page explores death, dying and financial hardship. It pulls together our findings on this topic, as well as recommendations for governments, health systems and services.