The Dudley Group NHS Foundation Trust celebrates another milestone in delivering outstanding end-of-life care, as four wards at Russells Hall Hospital have achieved accreditation from the Gold Standards Framework (GSF), with one ward successfully receiving re-accreditation.

Wards B2 (Stations 3 and 4), AMU 1 and 2, and C1b have all been awarded GSF accreditation for the first time, while C7 has proudly achieved GSF re-accreditation for 2025. These accomplishments highlight the unwavering commitment of staff to providing compassionate, personalised and high-quality care for patients approaching the end of life.

Diane Wake, group chief executive of The Dudley Group NHS Foundation Trust, said: “I am immensely proud of our teams for achieving these prestigious GSF awards. Their dedication to delivering high quality, compassionate end-of-life care is reflected in this accreditation, and it is testament to their professionalism and commitment to improving patient experience and outcomes.”

The Gold Standards Framework is a systematic, evidence-based approach that supports all staff in delivering the highest standard of care. Its purpose is to help people live well before they die, and to ensure they are able to die well, in the place and manner of their choosing. At The Dudley Group NHS Foundation Trust, the GSF has been embedded over the last six years, with 14 wards now holding GSF accreditation.

Julie Armstrong-Wilson, chief operating officer for GSF said: “These organisations exemplify the Gold Standards Framework standards by listening to what matters most to each individual and delivering care in line with their goals, wishes, and preferences. Supporting our ageing population to live and die well is so important, our Award Winners are leading the way in demonstrating what good end of life care looks like.”

This progress in end-of-life care further strengthens the position of the Trust to provide exceptional, patient-centred care across all services.