WILLOW Wood Hospice will receive a further £50,000 in capital funding from the government, which has been welcomed by Ashton-under-Lyne MP Angela Rayner.
Willow Wood, based in Ashton-under-Lyne, is among 158 hospices selected to benefit, with allocations distributed by Hospice UK.
The funding comes from a £25 million pot for children’s and adult hospices across the UK, confirmed by Care Minister Stephen Kinnock.
The cash can only be spent on capital projects such as building repairs, improved patient rooms, outdoor spaces and upgraded IT systems, rather than day-to-day running costs.
Willow Wood supports patients from Tameside and Glossop with any life-limiting illness, and those closest to them.
MP Rayner found time in her busy schedule to pop into the Hospice last week following the announcement, to get an update on what Willow Wood has spent and is spending its previous allocation of capital funding on.
The politician said: “Willow Wood Hospice delivers crucial care and support to people across Tameside and the wider area for people with life-limiting conditions and their loved ones.
“As a former home help, I’m proud that this government is supporting palliative and end-of-life care and this announcement will make such a difference to the wonderful team at Willow Wood who provide such invaluable support in our community.
“Every time I visit, I’m blown away by the care and dedication shown by every single member of staff and volunteer. Their efforts are so very much appreciated.”
The latest allocation brings total government capital funding for hospices in England to £125 million over the past two financial years. It follows a separate commitment of £80 million over three years for children’s hospices.
However, hospice leaders are clear that capital funding, while welcome, does not solve wider financial pressures.
Tracy Minshull, CEO of Willow Wood Hospice, said: “It was a pleasure to update Angela on how the capital funding we’ve received is making a difference. We really appreciate her continued support and look forward to welcoming her again soon.
“We are very grateful to have received an additional £50,000 of capital funding, however, this is one-off funding that can only be spent on things such as buildings, IT systems and outdoor spaces, and does not cover day-to-day running costs.”
Care Minister Stephen Kinnock said the funding would help hospices improve environments for patients and families, while broader reforms are developed.
“I am delighted that this additional cash boost has now been allocated to hospices. I thank Hospice UK for facilitating this so quickly, so hospices can swiftly contract any vital work and upgrades – making sure patients are being treated in the best possible environment.
“As Minister for Care, I am determined to transform palliative and end-of-life care by implementing a modern services framework. This will reduce the postcode lottery so every patient and family can get the high-quality care they deserve.
“This government is delivering an NHS that is fit for the future including by shifting care out of hospitals and into the community.”
A new palliative and end-of-life care framework is due to be published later this year, aimed at improving access and consistency of care and tackling issues such as workforce shortages and uneven regional provision.