'The timing couldn't be worse': Hospices urge residents 'write to your MP' to push for vital funding
People are being asked to write to their MPs urging financial support for hospices amid a national 'crisis' for the sector.
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Hospice UK, which represents more than 200 hospices across the UK, said the sector's finances are in their worst state for 20 years.
At least a fifth of hospices have cut their services in the last year or are planning to do so, according to the national charity.
This means inpatient beds being cut, staff being made redundant, and community services being restricted, with fewer visits to dying patients in their own homes.
Pressure on hospices has been growing, according to Hospice UK, which says "modest" state funding has not kept pace with increasing running costs.
It is now urging the public to write to their local MP calling for increased Government support.
Heather Tudor, Severn Hospice's Chief Executive, has spoken of the impact of rising costs meaning it needs to find another £1.4m this year.
She stressed that the charity is financially stable, with plans to address the situation, but admitted "it will be tough".
She added that the support of the community has been integral in its continuing service to the community, and said despite financial difficulties "we can't stop caring".
