Reading of the inspirational Steph Edusei, St Oswald’s hospice Chief Executive giving evidence to Newcastle City Council health and wellbeing board about the challenges facing the organisation and the added burden recent government policy changes have placed upon the hospice led me to reflect on the role of hospices and the enormously important role they play at some of the most challenging times for families.
No one who has had support from the amazing St Oswald’s could be in way less than overwhelmed by the support, tenderness, love, affection, and care given, and this to the whole family not just the individual receiving the direct support My personal experience marked me for life, and I will always be a loud and proud advocate of St Oswald’s and hospices in general.
So, Steph’s comments to the committee made me think long and hard and I have below set out what I believe is the case for sustainable long term central government funding.
Essential role in end of care life
Hospices provide compassionate, specialized care for people with terminal illnesses, focusing on quality of life, pain relief, and emotional support. This role is a vital part of a comprehensive healthcare system. Unlike acute care hospitals, hospices offer dignity and comfort in patients’ final days—something that aligns with public values and healthcare ethics.
Alleviates Pressure on the NHS and Hospitals
Hospices significantly reduce the burden on hospitals by caring for patients who would otherwise require expensive inpatient services. Central funding would ensure hospices can consistently meet this demand, helping the wider healthcare system remain efficient and sustainable.
Uneven and Unreliable Charitable Funding
Currently, many hospices rely heavily on donations and charity shops, creating wide regional inequalities. Wealthier areas may have better-funded services, while others struggle to maintain basic levels of care. Central government funding would ensure equitable access, regardless of geography or local fundraising capacity.
Predictable Funding Enables Strategic Planning
Charity-dependent models create funding volatility, limiting long-term planning and innovation. Secure public funding would allow hospices to invest in workforce development, facilities, and new models of palliative care, improving outcomes and efficiency.
Moral and Societal Responsibility
Providing dignified end-of-life care is a moral obligation of a just society. By funding hospices, the state recognizes the intrinsic value of every citizen, even at life’s end. It also supports families during one of the most difficult times, reducing psychological and economic strain on caregivers.
Cost-Effectiveness
Hospice care is often more cost-effective than hospital care. Investing in hospices is a fiscally responsible approach that can yield better outcomes at a lower cost—especially for people with complex needs who do not benefit from aggressive, hospital-based interventions.
Meets Legal and International Health Standards
Access to palliative care is increasingly recognized as a human right by organizations such as the World Health Organization. Sustainable central funding would help the UK meet its obligations under human rights and healthcare equity frameworks.
So, in conclusion I argue that sustainable, centrally allocated funding for hospices is not just a health policy option—it is a necessity. It promotes fairness, relieves pressure on hospitals, ensures consistency in care standards, and reflects a humane and responsible approach to end-of-life care.
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