Governance

Network Vision

To provide a multidisciplinary, collaborative and supportive Network that, through service development, pathways, education and research, ensures accessible, equitable and gold-standard palliative care to all families. 

Network Structure

The Network is made up of several layers.

PPC Network structure diagram

Network Leadership Team

This is the Clinical Lead and Network Manager, and they meet weekly. They provide the day-to-day running of the Network, which includes engaging with stakeholders, progressing Network projects and providing clinical expertise to external projects. They are supported by the two Vice Co-Chairs of the Network.

Steering Group

This is the governing body of the Network that holds the Network to account for delivering its workplan. It is made up of the key decision makers from the six ICBs, NHS organisations and hospices, which ensures they can support in resolving any risks, issues or challenges the Network faces. It is also the Network’s mechanism to support ICBs to commission services that are appropriate for the West Midlands. They meet quarterly.

 WMPPCN Steering Group Terms of Reference

PPC Forum

The WMPPCN Paediatric Palliative Care Forum is a quarterly meeting open to everyone who works in or is interested in paediatric palliative care, from antenatal contexts through to transition to adult services. It offers a supportive space and can be used for education, talking through case studies, and sharing updates in research, audit and the wider palliative care service.

The Terms of Reference for this group can be found at the bottom of the page.

WMPPCN Forum Terms of Reference

Working Groups

There are several Working Groups that meet as determined by the group itself, often quarterly. These groups are responsible for the delivery of the workplan and each owns a specific objective. They are made up of interested colleagues from across the Network, and we are always keen to have as many professions and organisations represented as possible. Head to  Working Groups  to find out more information.

Network Objectives

The Network has a workplan which lays out what it is aiming to achieve each year. This is guided by the priorities of Network members and each ICB. For a full list of our objectives, please see the Steering Group Terms of Reference, but outlined below are the priority objectives for this year.

  • Develop the formally managed network and establish the governance.
  • To work towards the 24/7 service provision to enable choice of care. This includes 24/7 advice and guidance from nursing teams and consultants, and face-to-face nursing provision for those approaching end of life.
  • Collect data about the palliative care needs and service provision across the West Midlands.
  • To develop and host educational events and resources to raise professional awareness of paediatric palliative care.
  • Advocate for high-quality bereavement and after-death care that meets family preferences and goals.
  • Ensure there is adequate staff support for those working in palliative and bereavement care that meets recommendations.
  • To ensure there is an equitable child death review process across the West Midlands that follows the statutory guidance.
  • Develop perinatal palliative care pathways, and improve the transition process from adult to neonatal/child services.