Southern Hospice Group is calling for urgent action following the Public Accounts Committee report on the financial sustainability of adult hospices. The report shows a sector under pressure, with rising demand, increasing costs, and uncertain funding putting services at risk.
Stuart Palma, CEO at Southern Hospice Group, said:
“Demand for end-of-life care is rising fast as more care shifts from hospitals into the community. But funding is not keeping pace, leaving hospices to bridge an ever-widening gap.”
Independent hospices care for around 270,000 people each year, saving the NHS £800 million and 1.5 million bed days annually. Hospice care is compassionate – and cost-effective.
When services are cut, more people are forced into hospital, often against their wishes. One in four hospital beds is now occupied by someone in their last year of life.
Mr Palma added: “Access should never depend on where you live, yet funding varies wildly, creating a postcode lottery. We are protecting our services, but we cannot do this alone.
“Urgent action is needed: a clear definition of core services, a fair, sustainable funding model, and recognition of the vital value hospices provide. Everyone deserves dignity, choice and compassionate care at the end of life. We must act now.
“Southern Hospice Group is working closely with local MPs and the Government to tackle these challenges – but now we need urgent action to keep hospice care sustainable and accessible for all who need it.”
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