Despite the growth of the children's hospice movement the public and many health professionals do not appear to understand its true role. It provides relief and terminal care with practical and emotional support for children with life-limiting and life-threatening conditions, and their families. It should, however, not be seen as the only option open to these families. It is not a substitute for good hospital or community care. Paediatric palliative care is a very specialised area which requires expert and individualised care. Children's hospices could be seen as local centres of clinical research, education and audit rather than just a provision of care.

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