Echo (end of life care hub for Coastal West Sussex) can be used by patients who are approaching the end phase of their life. It can also be used by carers, families or healthcare professionals as one single number to phone.

How will Echo help me?

Echo nurses will be able to give you some advice and support over the telephone. If they are not able to advise you themselves, they will consult with other specialist nurses and doctors to help you.

Echo nurses will also be able to ask other services to respond to your care needs or will advise and direct you or your relative or carer to other services that can help you.

When can I use Echo?

You, or your relative or carer, can contact Echo 24 hours a day, every day of the year, if you need advice or support:

• If your condition or needs change and you/your relative or carer are not sure what to do
• If you need advice about accessing equipment or practical care support
• If you are entering the end phase of your life or have received a diagnosis of a life limiting illness
• If you need to know how to access bereavement support

Echo is available for healthcare professionals if they need additional advice, guidance and information about your care.

How are we supporting Echo?

St Barnabas House has played a significant role in the planning and delivery of this service. Most importantly, our nurse specialists and palliative care consultants are providing 24/7 advice and support to the Echo nurses.

Our Hospice at Home Team will have a stronger link with the palliative care team at the hospital by providing a service which will help get people out of hospital more quickly so that those who would prefer to die at home are able to do so.

Working alongside our Clinical Commissioning Group, NHS trusts, St Wilfrid’s Hospice in Chichester and the MacMillan Midhurst team, Echo will deliver seamless care from all local providers.