Intersectionality
People with palliative care needs are shaped by many backgrounds. This includes diverse cultures, languages, genders, experiences, and where and how we live.
You have a right to be treated as an individual, and with dignity and respect. This includes recognition for your culture, identity, beliefs, and choices.
Sometimes you may experience discrimination or feel at a disadvantage.
This could mean that accessing palliative care services is harder. Different parts of your background might face different barriers. Services might help with some but not all.
The overlap or intersect of barriers is called ‘intersectionality’. With intersectionality the barriers can become a wall.
Understanding intersectionality can help us to build services appropriate for everyone. For health professionals knowing your community is a good place to start.
Last updated 05 June 2026