Welcome to the International Observatory on End of Life Care.

Thank you for visiting our website. You will find here comprehensive information about the varied programmes and projects we undertake and also details of our own Observatory Publications.

Our team of social scientists and clinicians at Lancaster collaborates with colleagues all around the world in an effort to provide research evidence to impact the development of hospice and palliative care. Do look for ways to get involved with us – through research collaboration, programmes of study, volunteering or grant support.

The “Global Development” section of our website contains analyses of the state of palliative care in over 60 countries of the world, including our most recent, The Philippines. Under “Historical Analysis”, you will find examples of a range of projects designed to throw light on the history of hospice and palliative care in different settings. Our “Ethics” pages contain much up-to-date information and many useful links.

Forthcoming change of leadership at the Observatory

	Professor David Clark, who established the International Observatory at Lancaster in 2003, is moving to a new position as Director of the Glasgow University Dumfries Campus. He takes up his appointment in Scotland on 1st October. David will have wide ranging academic and management responsibilities in his new role but plans to maintain some work in the field of end of life care.
	From 1st August, Professor Sheila Payne will be Director of the Observatory. The team at Lancaster is currently engaged in a review of its activities and programmes and will be working on a strategic vision for the future development of the Observatory, which will be finalised by the autumn.

** New ** Doctorate in Palliative Care is a new course, due to commence in June 2010. For more information, click here.

Masters in Hospice Leadership is a postgraduate qualification that will be of special interest to chief executives, senior managers and suitably qualified people who aspire to lead hospices both in the UK and overseas. For more information, select the following link:
http://www.lums.lancs.ac.uk/executive/open/MA-hospice-leadership/.

Summer School 2009: Bookings for this year's Summer School are now being accepted. Click the following link for more information:
Further information on our Summer School 2009

Our site is updated constantly, so do hit your “refresh” button often! And keep checking for new projects, breaking news and future activities within the International Observatory on End of Life Care. Your interest is much appreciated.

Professor David Clark
Lancaster University, UK