Hospices across the country are facing serious financial challenges, and St Wilfrid’s is no different.

Our recently published Impact Report for the 2023-24 financial year shows that costs of patient care rose by around £2,000 a day, while government funding has not kept pace.

It is a situation that our CEO, Colin Twomey, describes as unsustainable. “We are in the midst of a widespread crisis,” says Colin. “Hospices are a vital service for our health care system, yet government funding has not kept pace with rapidly rising costs.”

The hospice wants to be clear that there are currently no plans to close services, as has been seen at other hospices across the country. For the moment we are able to use our reserves to make up the shortfall.

But, says Colin, this can only get the hospice so far. “As Chief Executive, I’m charged with thinking about how we spend our money and what we can afford. In the new budget, I expect we will face another difficult year. I never want to be in a position to have to close part of our service, but these are the stark decisions I may face if the gap in our funding doesn’t close soon.”

Alongside other hospices in Sussex, St Wilfrid’s has embarked on a new partnership, the Sussex Hospice Alliance. The alliance sees six hospice organisations working in partnership with the NHS to create the best outcome for people at the end of their lives.

“Speaking with one voice, combining our expertise, we will be stronger together. This harmony will go a long way towards pooling our resources, allowing us to work more efficiently together,” says Colin.

Of course, the support of the local community continues to be invaluable to St Wilfrid’s, providing over 70% of our funding. We are appealing to local people to continue in their generous support and help protect the hospice for future generations.

“We really couldn’t do what we do without our local community,” says Colin. “I know that many people are also facing financial pressures, especially in the run up to Christmas. But we need your support now more than ever. Whether you can make a one off or regular donation, leave a gift in your will, host a fundraiser, or take part in an event, your support will help us weather this ongoing storm and ensure St Wilfrid’s is here for everyone who needs us.”

Pictured: St Wilfrid’s Hospice CEO Colin chats to a carer at the Living Well hub drop in.