Changes will be made to the way palliative care is offered in Jersey, with demand expected to increase to 800 people by 2036.

The new strategy aims to improve end-of-life care for those with illnesses and focus on individual needs rather than the disease.

Jersey Hospice Care and the Health and Community Services have drawn up a new strategy as the island's population is expected to grow and rapidly become older.

Health and care providers will be better connected through a network to offer extra support for islanders and their families at the end of life, recognising that many terminally-ill people wish to die at home.

Health Minister, Deputy Karen Wilson, says it was vital when designing the strategy that all organisations which deliver palliative and end-of-life care worked together, as they all have a role in delivering these services.

"This strategy will equip health and care professionals with the necessary skills and knowledge to deliver high-quality palliative care, ensuring comfort, dignity, and respect for every individual."

By 2036, it is estimated that 800 people will require palliative care, a 50% increase from 400 islanders in 2016.

Mike Palfreman, Chief Executive of Jersey Hospice Care, says the need and demand for palliative care services will increase significantly in line with this.

"Our vision is to ensure that all Islanders with a life-limiting illness will have access and informed choice to the right care, by the right person, at the right time and in the right place.

Hospice has been, and will continue to be. at the heart of the community in working with our partners and Government to deliver this ambitious strategy and to ensure we all continue to make a difference to Islanders."