Planning Ahead with Kindness & Compassion

Last month, we were joined by Amber Price, Specialist Nurse from Compassion in Dying. Amber guided us through the often difficult but deeply important topic of advanced care planning (ACP) — how each of us can document our wishes for future treatment and end-of-life care.
While conversations about death can feel uncomfortable, they are, at their heart, about living well and ensuring we are cared for in ways that reflect who we are. Having some clarity about the future can help to give greater peace of mind right now.

Why Planning Ahead Matters

Far too often, what people want at the end of life doesn’t match what happens in reality.

• Fewer than 1 in 10 people in the UK formally record their wishes.
• Without a plan, doctors who may not know you personally have to make decisions on your behalf.
• Many people assume their next of kin can decide — but legally, that’s not the case.
• Others think they need a solicitor to ensure their wishes are carried out, which isn’t true in most cases.

In reality, you have a number of different options available. By planning ahead, we relieve loved ones of the burden of guessing, and we give ourselves the best chance of care that honours our values.

Ways to Document Your Wishes

1. Advance Statement
Think of this as the story of who you are. An advance statement captures your values, beliefs, and day-to-day preferences — from spiritual needs to how you like your tea. It’s not legally binding, but it’s an invaluable guide for family and healthcare staff.

2. Advance Decision to Refuse Treatment (ADRT / “Living Will”)
This is a legally binding document (in England, Wales, and NI) that allows you to refuse specific treatments in advance — even if doing so may shorten your life. It must be signed and witnessed, and it’s crucial to share copies with your GP, hospital, and loved ones.

3. Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) for Health & Welfare
An LPA lets you appoint someone you trust to make health and care decisions if you lose capacity to do so yourself. It’s separate from financial LPA and needs to be registered with the Office of the Public Guardian (which can take up to 20 weeks). Once in place, a LAP ensures someone who knows you well can speak on your behalf. Putting this in place well in advance, can help to take the strain off yourself and your loved ones in the future.

Complementary Clinical Documents

Alongside personal planning, there are a number of clinician-led tools such as Respect forms and Do Not Attempt Resuscitation (DNAR) orders that can help to ensure your wishes are carried out. While not legally binding, they help guide professionals and can work hand-in-hand with your ADRT or LPA.

Compassionate Next Steps

Planning for the future is a process rather than a one-off task. As you consider your options it might be helpful to do the following:

• Reflect: What matters most to you — where you’d like to be cared for, what treatments you would or wouldn’t want, and what makes you feel most at ease.
• Talk: Share your thoughts with loved ones early, so they’re prepared and reassured.
• Record & Share: Complete the documents, keep copies safe, and make sure your GP, hospital teams, and family know about them.
• Seek Support: Compassion in Dying offers free forms, phone support, and guidance to walk you through each step.

Planning for the future is about taking control with kindness and compassion. It ensures that, when the time comes, your care reflects your voice, your choices, and your dignity.

Contact Compassion in Dying

If you would like to contact one of the nursing team the details are below.

Free Information Line 0800 999 2434 (11am – 2pm, Monday – Thursday)

Email: info@compassionindying.org.uk

Web: compassionindying.org.uk