June 21, 2021 - 782 views
The pandemic has placed considerable financial strain on Welsh hospices, who rely on donations from the public for over 90% of their funding.
In marking Children’s Hospice Week, Janet Finch-Saunders MS – the Member of the Welsh Parliament for Aberconwy – has called for a commitment to bring forward a fair and sustainable funding settlement for Welsh hospices.
Children’s hospices in Wales currently receive less than 10% of their annual funding from the Welsh Government - in comparison to those in England, Northern Ireland and Scotland who receive 21%, 25% and 50% of their funding from their respective Governments.
In a written question to the Minister for Health & Social Services, Mrs. Finch-Saunders asked: “Will the Minister confirm the timeline for when the Welsh Government will bring forward a fair and sustainable funding settlement for Welsh hospices, so that they can offer more support and care for children with life-limiting conditions in Wales?”
Explaining her position and arguing the need for a new funding settlement, she said: “We are so incredibly fortunate to have exceptional palliative care facilities across Aberconwy, with Tŷ Gobaith and St David’s Hospice committed to providing invaluable care and support to individuals with life-limiting conditions, as well as their friends and family.
“However, conversations with the sector have made clear that many hospices remain concerned for their future and their ability to meet the needs of life-limited children and families, unless they can attain a more sustainable funding settlement.
“This is an immediate question which needs long-term answers. With charity shops closed and many fundraising events unable to take place, despite the generosity of local residents, our hospices have made clear that donations have not met those of previous years.
“Wales now has an unrivalled opportunity to build back a compassionate country. I urge the Welsh Government to provide a new funding settlement that will work to facilitate the caring actions of others.”
