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File on 4: Dying on the Streets

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Dying on the Streets

13/02/2018

BBC Radio 4 - File on 4, Dying on the Streets

Why does life on the street also mean death on the street for some rough sleepers?

An investigation into why some rough sleepers are being denied end of life care - despite being diagnosed as terminally ill. Jane Deith reports.

The homeless being denied end of life care.

File on 4 hears the stories of the terminally ill left to die in hostels and on the street.

An estimated 4751 people will sleep rough tonight in England. Many are seriously, even terminally ill. 

If you're living on the streets, who will care for you when the end comes?

File on 4 hears from homeless people living with life threatening illness, who can't find a regular bed for the night, let alone a place where their medical needs can be met.

A bed in a nursing home or hospice is usually not available to them. Hostels are left to do their best for the dying. But they say they aren't trained or equipped to give people a dignified death. 

We speak to those battling to get homeless people basic medical care. And hear how when services fail, people are left to die on the street.

Reporter: Jane Deith
Producer: Emma Forde
Editor: Gail Champion.

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