Education Update
Hospice New Zealand offers two valuable free education programmes that support staff working with residents who have palliative care needs. Both courses strengthen understanding, confidence, and compassionate practice, while recognising the important role ARC teams play in end of life care.
Palliative Care for Care Assistants (PC4CA)
Run by the Residential Care Team at Otago Community Hospice, this face to face one day workshop is designed for caregivers, health care assistants, and support workers, who provide day to day, hands-on care. It introduces the principles of palliative care and focuses on practical skills such as recognising and responding to common symptoms, supporting comfort and dignity, communicating with residents and whānau, and understanding the last days of life. The course also emphasises caregiver wellbeing and encourages reflection and discussion based on real-world experiences.
Fundamentals of Palliative Care (FOPC)
Fundamentals of Palliative Care is a more in-depth programme suitable for a wider range of ARC staff, including registered nurses, allied health professionals, and non-regulated workers wanting a stronger foundation in palliative care. The programme includes online learning followed by a one day facilitated workshop, covering core palliative care principles, communication, symptom and pain management, ethical and spiritual considerations, and care at end of life. This workshop supports staff to build knowledge, confidence, and consistency in palliative care delivery.
Which course is right for you?
PC4CA is ideal for caregivers and support staff who want practical, accessible learning that directly supports their everyday role. Fundamentals of Palliative Care is best suited to staff with broader clinical responsibilities or those seeking a more comprehensive understanding of palliative care practice. If healthcare assistants are interested in undertaking Fundamentals of Palliative Care programme, the first step is to complete PC4CA.
Getting the most out of these courses
Participants are encouraged to come prepared, actively participate in discussions, and reflect on how learning can be applied within their facility or workplace. Sharing experiences with colleagues and using provided resources after the course helps embed learning into everyday practice and enhances the quality of care for residents and their whānau.
To enroll in one of these programmes go to:
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