The report by Together for Short Lives looked at the social isolation experienced by families with a child with a life-limiting condition. 52 families took part in the survey, with most saying they often felt isolated and their social life had suffered considerably because of their child’s condition. The reasons cited for not going out socially ranged from exhaustion to a fear of being away from their child. The report also revealed continued social isolation for bereaved families. The 2nd part of the report surveyed the general public and demonstrated that a third of the public would be uncomfortable interacting with families with children life-limiting conditions. It also revealed a lack of awareness of children's palliative care services including hospices and what they can provide. A number of recommendations are made.
Together for Short Lives, 2018. Hidden lives: tackling the social exclusion of families caring for a seriously ill child.
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