Support During Very Serious Illness
Most people admitted to intensive care survive their ICU journey.
Sadly, not everyone recovers.
If your loved one is receiving comfort-focused care, or you have been told their illness may be approaching the end of life, this section offers information, support and guidance for families navigating particularly difficult circumstances.
You can access these resources whenever you feel ready.
A gentle pathway
When things become more serious
Information and support if your loved one's condition has changed.
Talking about what matters
Guidance for conversations with the care team about goals and wishes.
Care focused on comfort
What comfort-focused care can look like, and how you can be present.
When treatments are changed or stopped
Understanding what may happen and what support is available to you.
Conversations about organ donation
Time, space and information if organ donation is discussed.
The organ donation process
Gentle explanations of what happens, at your own pace.
Saying goodbye
Support for the time around a death, and afterwards.
Moving to bereavement support
Resources for when you feel ready.
Understanding Organ Donation
Families often have questions when organ donation is discussed.
It is common to need time, information and support.
The resources in this section aim to explain the process and answer common questions.