University of Hull study highlights undervalued role of homecare workers in end-of-life care
The research calls for greater recognition and training
A landmark study by the University of Hull reveals that homecare workers are an 'invisible workforce' in end-of-life care, with their essential contributions largely unacknowledged and underappreciated.
Funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR), the study delved into experiences of homecare workers supporting individuals in their final days at home.
Despite their vital role, these workers are often overlooked by healthcare professionals, policymakers, and researchers, the study found.
Miriam Johnson, Emeritus Professor at Hull York Medical School, highlighted the growing preference for home-based end-of-life care, necessitating a wide range of professional support.
"Our research shows that whilst homecare workers are an essential part of that network, their contributions are frequently unrecognised," she said.
Johnson noted the valuable emotional care and insights provided by homecare workers, while underscoring the need for their involvement in critical conversations.
Co-lead Liz Walker, Professor at the University of Hull, stressed the impact homecare workers have on individuals and families.
"Frequently they are seen – and see themselves – as ‘just care workers’, missing out on the support, recognition, and training they need," Walker explained.
The study identified a gap in training for complex end-of-life scenarios, with newly developed materials by the research team available to bridge this divide.
This comprehensive research, published in Health & Social Care in the Community, involved various perspectives from healthcare professionals, care recipients, and their families, among others.
The University of Hull and collaborators such as King's College London and Bradford NHS Teaching Hospital contributed to this important work, which included individuals with caregiving experience.
For more information, visit Wolfson Palliative Care Research Centre.
Homecare services can access free training materials here