RecruitingObservational

Care of people at the end of their lives in the rural and coastal communities of the South West Peninsula of England

This study, run by the University of Plymouth, focuses on improving end-of-life care for people in rural and coastal parts of Devon, Cornwall, and Somerset. Researchers want to understand what works well and what doesn't in these areas, as people there sometimes struggle to get the care they need. They will talk to patients nearing the end of their lives, their families, and healthcare professionals. By gathering experiences through interviews, surveys, and workshops, the study hopes to find practical ways to make care better for everyone in these communities. It’s about learning from real-life situations to shape future support.

At a glance

Status

Recruiting

Sponsor

University of Plymouth

Enrolment target

320

Start

20 Feb 2026

Estimated completion

31 Jan 2028

People at the end of life, family members and professionals

What is this study about?

This study is all about making sure people in rural and coastal parts of Devon, Cornwall, and Somerset get the best possible care towards the end of their lives. We know that living in these areas can sometimes make it harder to access the support and services needed, both for the person who is ill and their families. The research team from the University of Plymouth wants to understand this better.

The main goal is to find out exactly how end-of-life care is currently provided in these communities. They want to identify what parts of the care are working really well, what might not be working as effectively, and most importantly, *why* these things are happening. By understanding the real-life experiences of patients, their families, and the people who provide care, they hope to get a clear picture of the situation.

Ultimately, this study aims to use what they learn to suggest improvements. It's about gathering insights from real people to help shape better and more accessible end-of-life care for everyone in rural and coastal communities across the South West Peninsula.

Key takeaways

Aims to improve end-of-life care in rural and coastal South West England.
Involves patients, families, and healthcare professionals.
Uses interviews, surveys, and workshops to gather experiences.
Focuses on understanding what works well and what needs improvement.
Helps shape better care for future generations in these areas.
You can stop taking part at any time if you wish.

Who may be eligible?

This study is looking for a variety of people who live or work in rural or coastal parts of Devon, Cornwall, or Somerset. You can take part if you are an adult aged 18 or over.

This includes people who are nearing the end of their life (within the last 12 months) and their family members – whether they are currently looking after someone, or have recently lost someone. Professionals who work in health, social care, or charities that support people at the end of their lives are also invited.

It's important that all participants are able to understand what going into the study involves and can agree to take part (this is called giving ‘informed consent’). You also need to be able to communicate in English, though support can be provided if needed.

Quick self-check

Are you 18 years old or older?
Do you live or work in a rural or coastal part of Devon, Cornwall, or Somerset?
Are you a patient nearing the end of life, a family member, or a professional in end-of-life care?
Can you understand what the study involves and agree to take part?
Can you communicate in English (with support if needed)?

This is a guide only — the research team will confirm whether you can take part.

What does participation involve?

If you are invited to take part, what you do will depend on which part of the study you are involved in. Some people might have an interview or join a focus group (a small group discussion). Others might complete a survey or take part in workshops where they can share their experiences. The researchers will also look at existing information from the NHS to help them understand more about care differences. You won't be given any new medication, and there aren't specific hospital visits. The study started in February 2026 and is expected to run until January 2028.

Potential risks and benefits

Taking part in this study might not directly benefit you personally, but it gives you a valuable chance to share your experiences and help improve end-of-life care for many others in rural and coastal areas. It's possible that talking about end-of-life experiences could be upsetting for some people, and the study team understands this. Support will be available if you find it difficult, and you are always free to stop taking part at any time without giving a reason.

Locations (6)

St Luke's Hospice Plymouth
Plymouth, England
St Margaret's Hospice Care
Taunton, England
North Devon Hospice
Barnstaple, England
Mount Edgcumbe Hospice
St. Austell, England
Rowcroft Hospice
Torquay, England
Hospiscare
Exeter, England

Common questions

What areas does this study cover?

The study focuses on rural and coastal communities within Devon, Cornwall, and Somerset.

Who can take part in this study?

Adults aged 18 and over, including patients nearing the end of life, their family members, and professionals working in end-of-life care in the specified areas.

What will I have to do if I join?

You might be asked to do an interview, join a discussion group, complete a survey, or take part in a workshop. It depends on your role in the study.

Will I get paid for taking part?

The information provided does not mention direct payment for participation, but you will be contributing to improving care.

Who is funding this research?

The study is funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (UK).

How to find out more

Gina Kallis

gina.kallis@plymouth.ac.uk +44 7731664168 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.