Palliative care for children is a basic human right.
We believe that all children with life-threatening and life-limiting conditions have the right to quality palliative care provided by trained health care practitioners. Holistic, family-centred children’s palliative care encompasses individualised assessment, pain and symptom management, psychosocial, spiritual and bereavement support.
As a community of palliative care practitioners we recognise that disparities exist within and between countries and services but collectively we are a rich resource of knowledge, skill and judgement and we commit to share all that we can to achieve this joint vision.
We commit both individually and collectively to identify opportunities for collaboration.
At the CHI 20th World Congress held in Cape Town from 14 - 16 September 2009, the question was posed: “What can the developed countries do to support children’s hospice and palliative care in developing countries?” Delegates were asked to think of ways to help bridge the gaps that exist between developed and developing countries. It was also acknowledged that resource poor countries often have much in the way of “resourcefulness” to teach their more affluent counterparts. After some discussion, and with valuable input from Lucy Sainsbury and Jo Ecclestone of The True Colours Trust, ICPCN Steering Group members created the ICPCN Declaration of Cape Town.
Once witten, it was reviewed and approved by congress delegates.
Most delegates present signed this declaration both as individuals and on behalf of their organizations, and we would like to ask for your support in gathering even more signatures. A copy of the Declaration with sheets for gathering signatures can be downloaded directly from this site.
The Declaration will be used for advocacy purposes.
Please post signed forms to:
ICPCN Information Officer
Cluster Box 3050
South Africa
