People are being encouraged to talk about their experiences of palliative care - both good and bad - as part of a new campaign.

Palliative care is aimed at people whose conditions cannot be cured. The goal is to provide the best quality of life in the time they have left, which can be anything from days to years.

During the month of April, the ‘Let's Talk About' care campaign is calling on people to share their experiences by completing an online survey. The survey is being led by the All Ireland Institute of Hospice and Palliative Care (AIIHPC) and is open to anyone affected by this topic, including patients, their families and carers.

"For people with conditions that cannot be cured the goal of care is the best possible quality of life. They may need help with pain and other symptoms, but also practical, social, emotional and spiritual support and they may need that care for weeks, months and years up to the end of life.

"We really want to hear from people who have stories to tell about their good, as well as their not so good experiences. This helps deepen our understanding of what makes for good care and what needs to improve," explained AIIHPC director, Paddie Blaney.

Previous research carried out by the AIIHPC revealed that people do want to talk about their experiences of palliative care and when they feel they are supported, their experiences tend to be better.

The research also indicated problems with communication, with one in three people saying they received too little information too late, while others felt the issue was avoided or too much jargon was used.

The survey is anonymous and it should take no more than15-20 minutes to complete. To take part, click here. Hard copies are also available by calling the AIIHPC on (01) 491 2948 or emailing info@aiihpc.org