Visiting St. Catherine's Hospice

Paul Foster MP and Maya Ellis MP at St. Catherine's Hospice, Lancashire

Last week, Maya Ellis MP and I had the honour of visiting St. Catherine's Hospice in South Ribble. It was a privilege to meet the incredible staff and volunteers who provide compassionate care during the most challenging times for patients and their loved ones.

St. Catherine's Hospice, Lancashire, supports approximately 2,000 people each year. This vital work is made possible by the dedication of 600 volunteers and the generosity of the local community. Without the unwavering support of volunteers and fundraisers, the hospice could not continue its essential services.

Recognising the importance of end-of-life care, the Government has announced an additional £100 million in funding for hospices like St. Catherine's. While this is a positive step, there is still more to be done. During my visit, I learned about inconsistencies in prescription funding across the sector. Some hospices receive full medication funding, others partial, and some none at all. This disparity is an issue I am committed to addressing in Parliament.

Thank you to everyone at St. Catherine's Hospice and across the sector—the staff, volunteers, and community members who ensure these essential services continue. I look forward to continuing to support you in 2025 and beyond.