It is a group of persons made up of those who are worried and interested in the quality of life of the members of the community. They could belong to the same city, town, or neighborhood.
A compassionate community gets involved in the care and support of those living with advanced illnesses and at the latest stages of life. The people involved are committed to implement initiatives, increase awareness, and offer training. They work together in order to build a skilled society that is able face illness, death, and bereavement as part of the life cycle.
Who is involved in this social movement?
• Community partners, such as city councils, corporations, schools, non-government organizations, etc.
• The families and institutions that care for patients at the end of life.
• Skilled medical and social services professionals.
Who benefits from this social movement?
• Members of the community with advanced illnesses or who are at the end of life, and their families.
• The whole community.
• Medical professionals and health/social centers, who receive community support.
See reference for more information. Adapted from New Health Foundation. What is a compassionate community? Internet. Accessed on January 20, 2012.