Harpreet Uppal highlights the urgent need for sustainable hospice funding during a recent Parliament debate
Huddersfield: Harpreet Uppal, the local Labour MP, is making waves in Parliament. She’s pushing for better support for hospices. During a recent debate, she spoke passionately about their importance.
Uppal highlighted how places like Forget Me Not Children’s Hospice and The Kirkwood are essential for families facing tough times. They don’t just offer medical help; they provide emotional and practical support too.
She’s been in touch with the Health Minister, Stephen Kinnock, about funding issues. Uppal believes hospices are lifelines for the community. They deserve stable funding to keep helping those in need.
While she welcomed recent funding boosts, she stressed the need for a long-term plan. “We need a solid framework for funding,” she said. This would help hospices plan for the future without worrying about money.
Uppal also pointed out the financial struggles many hospices face. Forget Me Not recently had to launch an urgent appeal to cover a £1 million gap. This shows just how serious the situation is.
She raised concerns about delays in accessing NHS funding for children’s hospices. The distribution process has been slow, and she’s been vocal about it with the Health Secretary, Wes Streeting.
Uppal wants this funding to be managed centrally to avoid any misallocation. She knows firsthand the challenges hospices face and the difference they make in people’s lives.
She praised the dedication of hospice staff and volunteers, calling them the “heart and soul” of these services. Their hard work, along with community support, can help hospices not just survive but thrive.
In January, local MPs will meet with hospice leaders to discuss funding. It’s a step in the right direction for the hospice sector.
