Jon Pearce MP Welcomes Labour’s £75 Million Funding Boost for Hospices

High Peak MP Jon Pearce has welcomed a landmark announcement from the Labour government confirming £75 million in new funding for hospices — the largest single cash injection of its kind — to upgrade and improve end-of-life care across England.

The funding will support more than 170 hospices, including three serving High Peak residents:

• Ashgate Hospice (Chesterfield): £633,770

• Willow Wood Hospice (Ashton-under-Lyne): £181,350

• Blythe House Hospice (High Peak): £119,874

The investment will fund major upgrades to facilities, including specially adapted beds, digital systems, communal lounges, and family rooms, with the aim of delivering comfortable, dignified, and modern end-of-life care environments.

Jon Pearce MP with Blythe

Speaking after the announcement, Jon Pearce MP said:

“I’m so pleased that this Labour Government has committed vital funding to our hospices. Willow Wood, Blythe House, and Ashgate do incredible work supporting people with life-limiting conditions and their loved ones — and this investment will make a real difference.

“I’ve seen first-hand the compassion and professionalism of the staff and volunteers at these hospices, and I’ve spoken to families who’ve been deeply touched by their care. This funding is a clear example of how government can support our communities in the moments that matter most.”

Tracy Minshull, CEO of Willow Wood Hospice, welcomed the support:

“We are very grateful to the government for this £181,000 capital investment. Most of it will go towards refurbishing our Inpatient Unit, helping us provide an even better environment for patients and their loved ones.

“While this funding doesn’t solve the ongoing financial pressures we face in daily operations, it will have a lasting positive impact on the quality of our facilities.”

Minister for Care, Stephen Kinnock, emphasized the wider impact of the funding:

“Hospices play a vital role in our health and care system, providing compassionate support when it is most needed. This funding will help improve facilities, relieve pressure on operational budgets, and enhance care across the country.

“It forms a key part of our 10-Year Health Plan, focused on moving more care into communities and out of hospital settings.”

Jon Pearce MP with Willow Woods Hospice team

High Peak MP Jon Pearce and Councillor Damien Greenhalghhad had already visited Willow Wood Hospise as they witnessed the vital impact Willow Wood has on the community

Funding Will Support:

• Building renovations and modernisation

• New family spaces, including communal and outdoor areas

• Digital upgrades to improve coordination with NHS services

• Outreach expansion for care beyond hospice walls

• Energy efficiency improvements for sustainability

The funding, for the 2025/26 financial year, will be distributed via Hospice UK, which is administering the programme without charging administration fees. Hospices can proceed with planned upgrades and will be reimbursed upon completion.

For full details, visit: www.hospiceuk.org