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Cash for hospices welcomed but will Katharine House benefit?
20/12/2024
The hospice’s Chief Executive says the money only addresses a fraction of the financial pressures they face
The Chief Executive of the Katharine House Hospice has welcomed the government’s announcement of £100m of funding for UK hospices but fears it will only address a fraction of the financial pressure the sector faces.
Emma Radley also thinks it is unlikely Katharine House will benefit as most of the funding appears to be earmarked for capital projects, rather than running costs.
The government cash will be available to support hospices with improvements including refurbishments, overhauling IT systems and improving facilities for patients and visitors. Katharine House has recently been refurbished.
A further £26 million is being made available to help with the running costs of children and young people’s hospices.
Mrs Radley said: “Katharine House Hospice welcomes the government’s announcement of £100m funding for UK hospices, which acknowledges the critical role hospices play in providing compassionate care for patients and families.
“Like most hospices, Katharine House is struggling with rising costs and lower donation levels. While this funding will provide some relief during a challenging time for the sector, it is important to recognise that it only addresses a fraction of the financial pressures we face. Sustainable, long-term funding solutions are needed to ensure hospices can continue to deliver essential services and meet the growing demand for specialist care in our communities.
“The government has stated that more details on the £100m funding will be shared with the hospice sector in the new year but, at first glance, it appears most of the funding will be allocated towards capital costs. Unfortunately, this means that Katharine House is unlikely to see significant benefit, as our facilities have recently been refurbished and our gardens are already carefully maintained.”
Banbury’s MP has been lobbying in parliament on behalf of Katharine House. He welcomed the extra money for the sector: “This is a great early Christmas present for hospices and I’m proud that bending the ear of government ministers has paid off.
“Katharine House do a wonderful job providing support for people with life-limiting conditions, and it was a privilege to visit and see some of their work in early November. This funding from our Labour Government will make a real difference.”
Health and Social Care Secretary Wes Streeting said: “I’m proud that we’re able to deliver the biggest funding package for hospices in a generation. Sean has done a brilliant job making the case for investment in hospices and I know how invaluable hospices like Katharine House are for so many families.
“This package will ensure they will be able to continue to deliver the compassionate care everyone deserves as they come to the end of their life in the best possible environment.”
Published: by Banbury FM Newsteam