A £26MILLION cash boost for children’s hospice’s across the country has been welcomed by the Solihull West and Shirley MP.
Dr Neil Shastri-Hurst led a campaign for the Government to continue this crucial funding after uncertainty around the Children’s Hospice Grant was revealed.
And after months of work the Department of Health and Social Care announced that hospices for children and young people would receive a further funding for 2025/26.
Children’s hospices are funded through donations and through fundraising activities and Government grants.
At a meeting with Acorns Children’s Hospice, it was brought to the Conservative MP’s attention that hospices like Acorns were under real threat of having to reduce their services, unless the Children’s Hospice Grant was secured for 2025/26.
Acorns has cared for 26 children and 28 families in Solihull, including those who are bereaved.
It has also supported 58 family members and provided 81 short breaks for children.
Dr Shastri-Hurst said: “The uncertainty around the Children’s Hospice Grant was unacceptable, as it prevented hospices from being able to forward plan the vital palliative care they deliver.
“This essential funding is critically important in ensuring children’s hospices are there for every child and family who needs their support.
“The funding will ensure that organisations such as Acorns Children’s Hospice can continue with their key services.
“The Government now needs to give hospices greater certainty by guaranteeing this funding for the long-term.”
