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Torbay's Rowcroft Hospice joins national funding plea
The hospice is reeling as the government's budget adds extra burden to operating costs
Rowcroft CEO Mark Hawkins
Reporter:
Jim Parker
28 Nov 2024 12:00 PM
Email:
jim.parker@clearskypublishing.co.uk
Torbay's Rowcroft Hospice has joined a national appeal urging the government to protect end-of-life care from Budget hikes.
Following the recent Budget announcement, which introduces substantial hikes in employer National Insurance Contributions for the voluntary sector, Rowcroft Hospice is joining with others to urge the Chancellor to protect charities and their essential services from the extra costs.
The new Budget plans will result in an estimated £225,000 increase in annual costs for Rowcroft, due to rises in employer NICs and the national living wage, placing a "severe financial burden on the hospice and potentially impacting the compassionate care that the charity provides to families in South Devon during their most challenging times."
Rowcroft Hospice, along with the National Council for Voluntary Organisations, is now calling on the community to support an open letter urging the government to exempt charities from these increased NICs.
Rowcroft CEO Mark Hawkins expressed deep concerns about the impact of these changes, saying: “With some hospices already cutting services due to escalating costs, rising demand for end-of-life care, and stagnant funding, we’re now facing the additional burden of increased National Insurance contributions and salaries.
"We’re at a critical juncture with costs that are not sustainable under the current funding framework. These additional financial pressures introduced by the latest Budget make it harder for us to deliver the essential, dignified end-of-life care that our community deserves.”
While recent statements by Health and Social Care Secretary Wes Streeting acknowledge the inadequacies of hospice funding, Rowcroft says it remains concerned that the latest Budget announcement fails to address this critical funding gap.
“Without an exemption from the rise in Employer National Insurance Contributions, Rowcroft Hospice and other hospices face difficult choices that could impact our ability to provide the outstanding care our patients and their families rely on,” said Mr Hawkins.
“This is a time to act—not only for those we care for but also to ease the burden on the NHS, allowing people to die in their preferred place with the dignity, care, and comfort they deserve.”
Rowcroft is appealing to the South Devon community for support in co-signing the open letter. The charity is also encouraging people to make a regular donation to the hospice.
Mr Hawkins said: "Regular donations are a fantastic way to support the hospice. They enable us to plan for the future while directly funding the frontline care provided by Rowcroft’s dedicated nursing team, making a tangible impact for families across South Devon.
"We’re so grateful for the support of our community at this difficult time.”
To sign the open letter, go to the National Council for Voluntary Organisations website at www.ncvo.org.uk
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