Non-cancer patient numbers under our care exceed cancer patients for first time
Change down to expansion of services for those with dementia and other neurological conditions
One of Herefordshire’s largest charities says the number of its patients with non-cancer conditions has exceeded those with cancer for the first time.
The change is down to an expansion of services offered by St Michael’s Hospice including expert care and support for those with dementia and other neurological conditions such as Parkinson’s and Motor Neurone Disease.
The Bartestree-based charity, which provides palliative and end-of-life care to those in Herefordshire and its borders, has seen a 133% rise in patient numbers in under a decade, whilst relying on the generosity of the community to plug an annual £10 million funding shortfall.
“The expert free-of-charge care provided to our patients continues day and night, just as it did when we first opened our doors 41 years ago,” said St Michael’s Chief Executive, Matt Fellows.
“Now, thanks to an ever-expanding breadth of services, we’re able to offer more care and support to more people, and the latest care figures reflect that.
“Despite reaching more people though, we’re acutely aware that there are a great many who could benefit from our care but, for whatever reason, we have not yet met. We’re very keen to make contact with them.”
The Hospice’s care is provided on the charity’s Inpatient Unit in Bartestree; to patients visiting the Day Hospice at St Michael’s; and in people’s homes through the Herefordshire Hospice at Home service*.
St Michael’s says at the time of the new figures, earlier this autumn, it was caring for 1,124 people; 568 of which have a non-cancer diagnosis. The Hospice is independent of the NHS, and receives less than a third of its care funding from the government and statutory sources. Mr Fellows says this shortfall is recouped thanks to the extraordinary support and loyalty of the charity’s supporters.
“Over £10 million each year must be raised through the incredible generosity of our community,” he said. “Every pound we receive helps make sure families can access expert, compassionate care when they need it most, without worrying about the cost.”
Mr Fellows has previously called for hospices across the UK to receive a more equitable share of funding from the government, particularly given the increasing challenges caused by National Insurance rises, and increased cost of living.
The latest year-end statistics showed St Michael’s cared for or supported 2,495 people in the 12 months to 31st March this year.
That figure was up almost 150 on the previous year, and up 1,425 in just eight years – a rise of around 133%
“Hospice care plays a vital role in our community, and we remain committed to working with our partners and supporters to secure sustainable, long-term solutions,” added Mr Fellows.
“Hospices across the UK face ongoing financial pressures that have only been exacerbated by recent economic difficulties.
“This makes the backing of our supporters all the more incredible – and we’re truly grateful for their continued support.”
For more information on the services offered by St Michael’s Hospice, just click here or you can call the Hospice’s 24-hour advice line on 01432 852080.
*St Michael’s Hospice and Marie Curie partner with the Herefordshire and Worcestershire Integrated Care Board to provide the Herefordshire Hospice at Home service.
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