A new multi-million pound strategy to support people as they come to the end of their lives is being launched by the Government.
Health secretary Alan Johnson and care services minister Ivan Lewis will announce new measures to provide better support and care to those who wish to die at home.
About 500,000 people a year die in England, usually after a period of chronic illness such as cancer, dementia or heart disease.
Surveys show that just one in five deaths happen at home even though two thirds of people state they would prefer to die in their own beds.
By comparison, 58% of people die in hospital with many families complaining that a lack of support and pain management issues leave them with no other alternative.
Mr Johnson said people will be given more control over where they die and will be encouraged to make their wishes known.
The 10-year End of Life Care strategy for England promises more support for carers, community nurses on call 24/7 in all areas, and better training for staff.
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