Hospices warn of financial crisis as assisted dying bill is debated
Hospices across the UK are facing their most severe financial crisis to date, coinciding with parliamentary deliberations on the Assisted Dying Bill, reports BritPanorama.
A recent survey indicates that 75 per cent of hospices are currently operating at a deficit, an increase from 70 per cent last year. The financial burden is particularly alarming, with 83 per cent of hospices predicting their financial position will worsen in 2025, following the previous year’s record lows.
Leaders in hospice care have raised concerns that if the assisted dying law is passed, vulnerable individuals might choose to end their lives rather than face inadequate care. Toby Porter, CEO of Hospice UK, noted the urgency of the situation, stating, “Last year was the worst financial year on record, and this year is looking even worse.” He emphasized the need for “fair and long-term NHS funding” to prevent a so-called financial cliff edge.
The survey of 115 hospices highlights the precarious financial landscape, with nearly two in five planning service cuts. Most hospices rely heavily on charitable donations and fundraising events, with only about 40 per cent of their funding sourced from government support. The urgent call for NHS reallocation of funds underscores the dire need for sustained investment in palliative care as the debate over assisted dying unfolds.
A spokesperson for the Department of Health acknowledged the invaluable work of hospices and indicated that the government has made significant investments, including £125 million aimed at improving facilities and an additional £80 million designated for children’s and young people’s hospices over a three-year period.
The Assisted Dying Bill, currently the subject of debate in the House of Lords, is a Private Members Bill without government backing. Advocates are reportedly considering invoking the Parliament Act to expedite its passage, raising concerns about oversight and the potential implications for vulnerable populations.
This legislative movement comes amid rising trepidation from hospice leaders regarding access to necessary care. Porter voiced that ensuring hospice care availability is crucial as legislative changes may influence decisions on end-of-life options.
With the financial crisis escalating alongside this moral dilemma, the focus is on how the UK can balance complex issues of care, funding, and individual choice within the context of health services.
The implications of either supporting or opposing the Assisted Dying Bill extend beyond the immediate welfare of hospices, reflecting broader societal values and responsibilities towards the vulnerable.
