Strathcarron joins forces with other hospices to issue warning over funding crisis

Strathcarron Hospice, located in Denny, has teamed up with other hospices to raise awareness about a funding crisis stemming from escalating running costs. The hospice emphasised the need to secure approximately £120,000 every week to sustain its crucial services for patients and their families. The mounting expenses, spanning from payroll to heating bills, have placed significant strain on the hospice’s operational budget.

Mags McCarthy, the CEO of Strathcarron Hospice, highlighted the reliance on community donations to bridge the financial gap left by insufficient NHS funding. The hospice caters to over 400 individuals weekly within Forth Valley and North Lanarkshire, both at the facility and in their homes. Despite a 76% surge in referrals since 2006, additional funding from the NHS has not been forthcoming, necessitating the hospice to cover all costs through donations.

The escalating salaries in the NHS, including a 5.5% increase for clinical and support staff and a 10.5% rise for consultant doctors, have compounded financial pressures on hospices. Rising expenses for essentials like heating and transport, coupled with upcoming National Insurance hikes, have further exacerbated the funding shortfall. As a result, Scottish hospices face an unprecedented financial gap, potentially leading to the heartbreaking scenario of turning away patients.

Strathcarron and other hospices are advocating for sustainable funding solutions in the upcoming Scottish Government Budget. The current financial landscape threatens the continuity of hospice care, which is not only essential for patients and families but also alleviates strain on the overwhelmed NHS. The plea is for political parties to collaborate on securing adequate funding to ensure equitable access to palliative care for all in need.

In conclusion, the collaboration between Strathcarron Hospice and other hospices sheds light on the critical funding challenges facing end-of-life care providers. The call for increased state support underscores the indispensable role hospices play in the healthcare system and the need for long-term financial sustainability to safeguard this vital aspect of healthcare provision.