Queenscourt Hospice launches campaign amid £2 million deficit
Urgent appeal to safeguard services and support end-of-life care
Queenscourt Hospice has launched the Keep Queenscourt in Service campaign to address a £2 million annual deficit that threatens its ability to continue providing vital services.
Serving West Lancashire, Formby, and Southport for 35 years, Queenscourt faces unprecedented financial challenges, exacerbated by rising costs and insufficient government funding, with only 24% of its budget covered by the NHS last year.
Financial strain and urgent need
The hospice deals with increasing costs, such as salary adjustments, National Insurance hikes, and energy bills, while government funding fails to match these demands. This has led to a "perfect storm" of pressures, including decreased legacy income, obstacles in fundraising, and declining retail revenue.
Dr Clare Finnegan, Executive Medical Director, emphasized the urgency: "Right now, our situation is unsustainable, and we are being forced to consider the possibility of reducing vital services. This is a step we never imagined we might have to contemplate."
Queenscourt is not alone, with hospices nationwide experiencing similar financial crises, and two out of five preparing cuts amidst empty beds reported by Hospice UK.
Community appeal and support
Queenscourt calls upon the local community for support, encouraging donations and participation in fundraising efforts to maintain access to end-of-life care and ensure the hospice's future.
Sam Hawksley, Executive Director of Strategy and Business Development, expressed the critical need for community backing: "We desperately need the support of our local community at this time, to ensure that everyone has access to the end-of-life care and support and to safeguard the future of our hospice."
To help, Queenscourt urges donations through queenscourt.org.uk/KeepQueenscourtInService, or by contacting their Fundraising Team at 01704 517420.
Since its establishment in 1991, Queenscourt Hospice has provided exceptional palliative care to approximately 70,000 patients and families, featuring an inpatient unit, community services, and educational programs at its Terrance Burgess Education Centre. Volunteers and staff remain integral to its operations and outreach.