Hospices Seek Additional Support Despite £100M Government Funding

Despite a recent £100 million government investment aimed at improving hospice facilities across the UK, many hospice leaders express that the funding is insufficient to meet ongoing operational costs. While the grant will benefit over 170 hospices, with immediate allocations for refurbishments, executives, such as Michael Crowther from Kirkwood hospice, emphasize that the funding will not address critical salary needs or the significant financial challenges they face. Chief executives from various hospices, including those in East Anglia, stressed the importance of developing a long-term funding model, as government support currently accounts for only a small fraction of their total income. They argue that public donations remain essential for maintaining services, especially as operational costs rise. The investment is seen as a welcome but temporary relief, with concerns that without sustained financial support, patient care quality and availability may diminish. Leaders are calling for a more comprehensive approach to ensure the viability of hospice services in the long term.