SNP 'sitting on cash' rather than investing in Scottish hospices, warns Labour
The SNP Government must ensure that hospices in Scotland are given enough cash to address the financial crisis facing the sector, Labour has warned.
The call comes after UK ministers announced £75 million would be shared among 170 facilities in England – believed to be the biggest boost ever for the sector.
The cash will go towards building separate family rooms, adding solar panels to reduce energy costs and communal lounges.
Jackie Baillie, Scottish Labour health spokeswoman, last week pledged hospice-based doctors and nurses would see their wages rise to NHS levels if her party takes power at the Holyrood election next year.
The Scottish Government promised in its budget to fund hospices to allow pay for staff to be increased to match levels in the NHS, but Labour has claimed the funding has not yet been released.
Baillie said: 'While the UK Labour Government is investing in hospices, the SNP is sitting on cash rather than giving this vital part of our health system the resources it needs.
'The SNP committed to £5 million in this year's budget to cover salary rises for last year, yet so far this has not been delivered.
'The SNP must give hospices the money they are owed and match Scottish Labour's pledge on pay so that staff are treated fairly and patients get the specialist support they deserve.'
Baillie vowed Scottish Labour would increase hospice funding by a further £3.6 million this year and £3.3 million next year, in line with NHS spending, if the party wins the 2026 Holyrood election.
The UK Government announced its funding increase today, with minister Stephen Kinnock praising the impact of the facilities.
"Hospices play a vital role in our society by providing invaluable care and support when people need it most,' he said. "At this most difficult time, people deserve to receive the best care in the best possible environment with dignity.
"I've seen first-hand how our funding is already making a real difference to improving facilities for patients and families. This additional funding will deliver further upgrades, relieving pressure on day-to-day spending.
"End-of-life care is crucial to our 10 Year Health Plan and our fundamental shift of moving more care out of hospital and into the community. We will continue to support hospices so they can deliver their vital work.'
The Scottish Government is being asked for comment.
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