I recently met with the team at Herriot Hospice at The Lambert to discuss the growing demand for specialist end-of-life care and the funding challenges facing the hospice.
Herriot Hospice provides exceptional care and support to local people and their families during some of the most difficult times in their lives. Yet, despite the vital role it plays in our local healthcare system, too much of the cost continues to fall on charitable fundraising and donations from the local community.
I believe that is wrong.
Access to high-quality end-of-life care close to home is incredibly important for local families, and I fully support Herriot Hospice's call for fairer and more sustainable NHS funding. Greater support for hospices is not only the right thing to do for patients and their loved ones, it also helps reduce pressure on hospitals and other NHS services.
I will continue to raise this issue with the Integrated Care Board, NHS England and ministers, and press for a funding solution that reflects the true value of the care that hospices provide.
Herriot Hospice delivers an invaluable service to our community, and I will continue to support its efforts to secure the long-term funding it needs to thrive.
