Hospice UK is the national charity for hospice and end-of-life care, working to ensure that everyone facing terminal illness receives the support, dignity, and compassion they deserve. We at The Farewell Guide are proud to partner with Hospice UK and support their mission of improving palliative care across the United Kingdom. Our service is, and will always be, completely free to use, but there are ways you can help by making a funeral plan that includes a charitable donation.

Here we will explore who Hospice UK are, the vital work they do, the challenges they face, and how you can support them—whether through direct donations, legacy giving, or incorporating charitable donations into funeral planning. 



Cicely Saunders: Hospice Pioneer

The Role of Hospice UK 

Hospice UK provides essential guidance, funding, and advocacy for over 200 hospices across the UK. These hospices, in turn, provide end-of-life care to over 300,000 people each year, helping patients and their loved ones through one of life’s most difficult journeys. 

Their core objectives include: 

• Improving access to hospice care – Ensuring that no one is denied quality palliative care due to their location, financial situation, or background. 

• Campaigning for better policies – Advocating for government support and improved healthcare policies for those facing terminal illness. 

• Providing education and training – Equipping healthcare professionals with the necessary skills and knowledge to deliver compassionate end-of-life care. 

• Funding research and innovation – Supporting advancements in palliative care to enhance the quality of life for patients and their loved ones. 

The Importance of Hospice Care 

Hospices provide specialised care that focuses on relieving pain and distress while offering emotional and psychological support to both patients and their loved ones. Unlike hospitals, hospices take a holistic approach, considering not just physical health but also mental and spiritual well-being. 

End-of-life care is often misunderstood, with many assuming that hospices are only for the final days of life. In reality, many patients receive palliative care for weeks, months, or even years, significantly improving their quality of life during their remaining time. 

The Challenges Facing Hospice UK 

Despite the critical role they play in healthcare, hospices face significant challenges, including: 

1. Funding Shortfalls 

Hospices rely heavily on charitable donations, as only a small percentage of their funding comes from the NHS. Many hospices have been forced to cut services due to financial strain, leaving patients and those close to them without essential support. 

2. Workforce Shortages 

There is an increasing demand for skilled palliative care professionals, but recruitment and retention in the sector remain challenging. Hospices need more nurses, doctors, and support staff to meet the growing demand for end-of-life care. 

3. Public Awareness and Accessibility 

Many people are unaware of the full range of hospice services available. Raising awareness can help people access support earlier, improving the overall experience of palliative care. 
 

How You Can Support Hospice UK 

There are several ways you can contribute to the work of Hospice UK, ensuring they continue providing vital services to those in need. 

1. Making a Direct Donation 

One of the simplest ways to support Hospice UK is by making a one-off or regular donation. Your contribution helps fund frontline care services, essential equipment, and hospice staff training. 

To donate directly, visit Hospice UK's official donation page. 

2. Leaving a Gift in Your Will 

Legacy donations are a meaningful way to ensure that hospice care continues for future generations. By including Hospice UK in your will, you leave a lasting impact on end-of-life care services. 

For guidance on writing your will and leaving a charitable gift, visit Hospice UK’s legacy giving page. 

3. Replacing Flowers with Funeral Donations 

Many people now request that, instead of flowers, mourners donate to a meaningful cause in memory of their loved one. The Farewell Guide offers an option to put a charitable donation into your funeral plan, so that your loved ones can donate to a cause that is close to you. Hospice UK provides an option to set up an ‘In Memory’ donation page where friends and family can contribute to hospice services instead of buying flowers. 

Find out more about funeral collections at Hospice UK’s website. 

The Farewell Guide’s Partnership with Hospice UK 

At The Farewell Guide, we understand the importance of planning ahead for a meaningful farewell. Our partnership with Hospice UK allows us to provide people with end-of-life planning solutions that also support a cause that makes a real difference. 

Through our work together, we aim to: 

• Encourage thoughtful funeral planning – By making hospice donations part of funeral arrangements, we create opportunities for lasting legacies. 

• Raise awareness about end-of-life care – More people should know about the support available to them through hospice services. 

• Ensure dignified farewells – Every individual deserves a respectful and well-planned departure that reflects their values and wishes. 

How You Can Get Involved 

Whether you’re currently planning a funeral, updating your will, or simply looking to support an important cause, there are many ways to contribute to Hospice UK’s mission. Here’s how you can get involved today: 

1. Donate directly – Visit Hospice UK’s website and make a contribution. 

2. Write or update your will – Include Hospice UK in your will to leave a legacy of care. 

3. Opt for funeral donations – Request donations instead of flowers at a loved one’s funeral. 

4. Spread awareness – Share information about hospice care and its importance with friends and family. 

Final Thoughts 

Hospice UK plays a crucial role in ensuring that end-of-life care in the UK is compassionate, accessible, and of the highest quality. However, their work relies on the generosity of supporters like you.

By incorporating hospice donations into your funeral plan, making a legacy gift, or simply spreading awareness, you can contribute to a future where everyone receives the dignified care they deserve in their final moments. 

To learn more about Hospice UK and how you can help, visit www.hospiceuk.org. 

Together, we can make a meaningful difference. 

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