Background Upper GI cancer is one of the most complicated groups of patients to manage, due to complex needs of the disease at presentation. Often with >70% palliative on presentation with poor prognosis, as symptoms are frequently vague and non-specific. (Local Trust UGI service review, 2019)

Aim To form collaborations with local palliative care providers through a shared commitment, identifying and maximising support for patients’ and carers’ health and wellbeing. Improving patient and carer experience and responsiveness.

Methods In 2021 the hospital’s UGI Cancer Support Team was involved in initial scoping for the possibility of partnership working with local palliative care providers to address some of the challenges with UGI cancers. In 2022, a memorandum of understanding was formed between the UGI Cancer Support Team and a local hospice, to demonstrate the parties’ commitment in providing support to UGI palliative patients. A fortnightly group was established at the hospice, facilitated by the UGI Cancer Support Team with provision from the Outreach Services.

Results The partnership has and continues to support patients and their families/carers with:

• Improved transition of care and responsive access to palliative care services.

• Increased referrals and future care planning discussions.

• Support for relatives/carers pre and post bereavement.

• Raised awareness of the hospice philosophy.

• Increased patient and carer experience.

• Holistic support, addressing non–medical needs through a process of wellbeing interventions.

Feedback from an UGI cancer patient referred to the hospice Outreach Services:

‘The transformation from the sessions offered has been amazing! From feeling anxious to calm, the change was mental and physical. I seemed to respond positively, relaxed or stimulated depending on the state of being I wanted to achieve.’

Conclusion This partnership has helped to form effective integrated working, improved services, and health outcomes for people living with a UGI palliative diagnosis.