More than 170 hospices across England will receive a share of the funding – described by the DHSC as ‘the largest cash injection ever’ – to ensure that patients receive the highest quality end-of-life care in comfortable, dignified surroundings. The news follows a ‘£25 million boost’ in February, delivering the government’s £100 million investment confirmed in December. This is already supporting urgent building repairs and creating warmer, homely spaces. The Department says the cash ‘marks a further step in the delivery of the Government’s Plan for Change, improving care in the community where people need it most’.
Hospices to benefit include Wigan and Leigh – visited by Health Minister, Stephen Kinnock in mid-July (see photo) – which it used to fund to replace a leaking flat roof. It will use the additional funding to replace its heating system
Stephen Kinnock said: “Hospices play a vital role in our society by providing invaluable care and support when people need it most. At this most difficult time, people deserve to receive the best care in the best possible environment with dignity. I have seen first-hand how our funding is already making a real difference to improving facilities for patients and families. This additional funding will deliver further upgrades, relieving pressure on day-to-day spending. End-of-life care is crucial to our 10 Year Health Plan, and our fundamental shift of moving more care out of hospital and into the community. We will continue to support hospices so they can deliver their vital work.”
Other improvements already made at hospices across England include:
- Major building works and modernised facilities.
- Digital transformation to improve data-sharing between healthcare providers.
- Development of outreach services to extend care beyond physical buildings.
- Creation of more welcoming spaces for families, including outdoor areas.
- Energy efficiency measures to improve sustainability.
The new cash injection is for the financial year 2025/26, and will be distributed by Hospice UK to hospices.
Toby Porter, CEO of Hospice UK, said: “The announcement in late 2024 of £100 million in capital funding for hospices was welcome recognition from the government of the immense pressure facing hospices, and their urgent need for more financial support. We were pleased to distribute the first £25 million of this funding early in March. We know this money has made a huge difference to hospices, and the next £75 million will continue to help them invest in their buildings, facilities, and digital infrastructure. While this one-off investment has been very welcome, it’s critical that we continue to work with government to secure long-term reform to ensure that hospice care is there for everyone who needs it, whoever and wherever they are.”