Introduction In September 2012, Marie Curie employed a keyworker at a Welsh hospice to work with local minority ethnic communities to increase access and to improve awareness of palliative care. The Big Lottery funded this project, which is being evaluated by a palliative care research centre in Cardiff University.

This presentation outlines the:

1. keyworker outreach project being undertaken;

2. Barriers identified by minority ethnic communities;

3. Steps taken by the hospice to reduce barriers

4. Feedback from minority ethnic patients and families accessing the service

Aim(s) and method(s) The aim of the keyworker role is to build relationships with local minority ethnic communities, and address barriers that may prevent individuals accessing palliative care services.

Results The keyworker has identified barriers experienced by minority ethnic communities in accessing palliative care, the need for community engagement to increase awareness and has highlighted steps that are needed to improve access to services by minority ethnic communities.

The hospice has seen a significant increase in numbers of minority ethnic patients accessing the service since September 2012.

Conclusion(s) This project highlights the importance of working with communities to improve awareness of palliative care and ensure equal access to services.