Lib Dem MP calls on the government to sustainably fund hospices

Examples shared across the House show that hospices are a vital part of our healthcare system.

They provide outstanding care for patients approaching the end of their lives, offering dignity, comfort, and support to families, and they're often driven by hundreds of volunteers alongside the paid staff, and they will also play a key role in this government's objective to move care from hospital to community and this debate is very timely when the front pages of the newspapers are reporting today that half a million people were left languishing on trolleys in A&E and in corridors in 2024 because there weren't enough beds to admit them.

One of the biggest components of hospice costs is the salary of their expert clerical clinical and other staff.

Hospices are trying to match salary increases to ensure that staff can afford to stay with the hospices and to remain competitive, and in addition, they are now burdened with paying the increased national insurance contributions while direct providers are exempt.

Now this is why the Liberal Democrats are calling for hospices to be exempted from the rise in national insurance contributions.

This targeted measure would provide immediate relief for a sector that is struggling under the weight of rising costs and prevent further reductions in capacity or even closures.

We must think long term.

We need a sustainable funding model that guarantees they can continue their vital work, providing care for patients, supporting families, and easing the pressure on the NHS.

Hospices must also be a part of the conversation in the government's upcoming 10 year plan for the NHS, and that must include sustainable hospice funding reform.

Examples from across the House today showed a shared recognition of the importance of hospice care.

Now we need the government to match that recognition for action for the patients, for the families, and for a health service that depends on hospices.

Thank you.

- Jess Brown Fuller MP