The announcement comes from NHS North West London Integrated Care Board (ICB), which will increase its funding contribution for hospice services from 33 per cent to 50 per cent of overall costs.
This move aims to secure the long-term sustainability of hospice care across the region, including at Harlington Hospice, Royal Trinity Hospice, St John’s Hospice, and St Luke’s Hospice (Harrow & Brent).
Lindsey Bennister, chief executive at St Luke’s Hospice, said: “St Luke’s Hospice (Harrow & Brent) welcomes this fantastic news of additional and sustainable funding for charitable hospices in north west London.
“At a time when hospices are struggling to fund their vital services, this increase in funding is game changing for our communities in north west London.
“It ensures that hospice services are protected into the future and the service cuts we are seeing in other parts of the country can be avoided in north west London.
“It enables hospices to focus on providing accessible and enhanced care at home and to continue to provide emotional and bereavement support for families across the region.
“This is a great example of collaborative working between hospice partners and the ICB, with involvement from the local community, which will have a profound impact on the support and care available for people with life-limiting illnesses.”
The funding will support both in-hospice and at-home specialist palliative care for people in the final stages of life.
More than 10,000 people in north west London receive care annually through these hospice services.
The decision follows a board meeting held on July 23, where the ICB endorsed the funding increase based on its value for money and the clear benefits of equitable, high-quality end-of-life care across the region.
Rob Hurd, chief executive of NHS North West London, said: “Charitable hospices play a vital role in delivering compassionate, high-quality care for people at the end of their lives.
“This additional investment reflects our deep appreciation for the work of our hospice partners and our commitment to ensuring everyone can access the support they need, with dignity, when and where they need it most.”
