Hospices across the UK are set to benefit from a landmark £126 million investment, the largest funding boost in a generation, aimed at improving end-of-life care for patients and their families. This funding includes £100 million for adult hospices and £26 million for children and young people’s hospices, ensuring these vital services can continue to offer the highest standards of compassionate care. 

At The Farewell Guide, we know that planning end-of-life arrangements can be one of the most difficult experiences a family faces. That’s why we’re proud to work alongside our partners at Hospice UK to support this crucial sector, which not only provides exceptional care but also relieves pressure on the NHS. 

Transforming Hospice Facilities and Services 

The government’s investment will fund essential upgrades to hospice facilities, including refurbishing patient rooms, improving IT systems to enhance data sharing between care providers, and developing outdoor spaces where families can spend precious time together. Additionally, the funding will support outreach services to help more patients receive personalised care in their own homes. 

Health and Social Care Secretary Wes Streeting stressed the importance of this funding, saying: 

“Hospices provide care and support at the most difficult time, and it is right they receive the resources needed to deliver these vital services. This investment ensures patients and families can access compassionate care in the best possible environment.” 

Supporting Children’s Hospices 

The funding package includes £26 million for children’s hospices through the continuation of the Children’s Hospice Grant. This support is critical to the work of organisations like Haven House Children’s Hospice, whose Chief Executive Ralph Coulbeck said: 

“It will be a relief to everyone in the children’s hospice sector to hear this funding is being maintained. It will help us continue to provide vital care to seriously ill children and their families.” 

Partnering for Better Care 

Toby Porter, CEO of Hospice UK, which partners with The Farewell Guide, welcomed the investment and its potential to support the sector: 

“This funding allows hospices to continue reaching hundreds of thousands of people with high-quality, compassionate care. We look forward to working with the government and partners to ensure everyone approaching the end of life receives the care they need.” 

A Step Forward for End-of-Life Care 

Hospices rely on charitable donations, so this is very welcomed. There are still concerns due to increased national insurance, but this is a great vote of confidence by the NHS and great to be recognised by the Government. The funding reflects a broader effort to improve access to personalised, community-based care. Families can have greater confidence that their loved ones will receive the care and support they need, when and where they need it most. 

Related Articles:

What is Hospice Care?

Supporting End-Of-Life Wishes For People With Learning Difficulties

How To Deal With A Loved One In Their Last Days