Charlie King, Director of External Affairs at Hospice UK said:
“It is deeply disappointing that the Chancellor hasn't used this Budget to address the funding crisis facing hospices.
“Across the country, hospices are being forced to cut vital services, leaving seriously ill patients and their families at risk of missing out on the care they desperately need. Yet today's Budget offers no reassurance that this situation will improve.
“Hospices cannot continue to rely on charitable donations to plug the growing gaps in funding. We urgently need a fairer, more sustainable funding system, including an immediate £112.5 million a year funding boost, fair NHS contracts and proper support for staff pay.
“The Government has promised to improve palliative and end of life care, but promises alone won't keep hospice services running. Without proper funding, more patients and families will miss out on the care they need.
“Everyone deserves dignity and compassionate care at the end of life. The Government must stop leaving hospice care to chance.”
