Randerson calls for Hospice funding review

10.27.11am GMT Mon 11th Dec 2006

Welsh Liberal Democrats will put hospices at the top of the agenda in the Assembly's final week before the Christmas recess.

Hospices in Wales receive only a small percentage of their funding from the government - and this percentage is decreasing. Jenny Randerson, Welsh Liberal Democrat spokesperson for health, is calling for a review of commissioning to ensure that hospices work more closely with local health boards to provide the best care for patients.

She said: "Hospices provide services which should be considered as part of the core work of the NHS. At present they are not. Too often our hospices have been the forgotten branch of healthcare - particularly in Wales.

"For example, Welsh children's hospices receive 3.25% of their funding from the NHS, compared to the 26% contribution they receive in England.

"I believe that Welsh LHBs could find more effective ways of delivering care by working in closer partnership with hospices. This review will find out how.

"We will be seeking the support of AMs in all parties to make sure Hospices get a fair deal."

Notes/Nodiadau:

Figures on Welsh children's hospice funding from Welsh Assembly Government briefing paper prepared by Hope House Children's Hospices. More details available on request.

Text of Welsh Liberal Democrat motion to be debated on December 12, 2006.

The National Assembly calls for an All-Wales review of the commissioning by LHBs of hospice and palliative care services examining levels of funding and provision and any other related issues. This review should take into account the findings of the Health and Social Services Committee's review of cancer services for people in Wales. The terms of reference for the review are to be agreed by the Health and Social Services Committee.

Ends/Diwedd

Contact/Cyswllt: Marie Concannon on 029 2089 8426

Release/Rhyddhau: 06/12/2006