New Data Reveals Legacy Gifts Fund 400,000 Nights of Hospice Care Nationwide

Seven hospice charities are joining forces for the second year of a powerful nationwide campaign encouraging people to consider leaving a gift in their Will, as new data highlights the vital role legacies play in funding hospice care.

Farleigh Hospice, Havens Hospices, St Clare Hospice, St Helena Hospice, Saint Francis Hospice, St Luke’s Hospice and Haven House Children’s Hospice are partnering once again for the This is Hospice Care campaign, led by Hospice UK.

This year’s campaign comes as new figures reveal that gifts in Wills fund the equivalent of 400,000 nights of hospice care every year across the UK. Without this support, thousands of people and families would miss out on the specialist care they rely on when it matters most.

The campaign also comes at a time when demand for palliative and end of life care is growing. Hospice UK estimates that the need for palliative care will increase by 25% by 2048, placing additional pressure on hospice services across the country.

Many people are unaware that hospices are largely funded through charitable giving. On average, only around 40% of hospice funding comes from government sources, meaning hospices must raise millions of pounds each day to continue providing their expert care and support.

Hospice care today extends far beyond inpatient services. Most hospice care is delivered in people’s homes and communities, helping individuals manage symptoms, make informed choices about their care, maintain their independence and spend precious time with those they love. Hospices also provide emotional, practical and bereavement support for families and carers.

Through powerful real-life stories, the This is Hospice Care campaign shines a light on the many ways hospices support people through some of life’s most difficult moments. It also highlights the lasting difference gifts in Wills can make, helping ensure future generations can continue to access expert hospice care and support.

A spokesperson on behalf of the Essex hospices said:
“We're proud to be part of this important campaign for a second year. Gifts in Wills help secure the future of hospice care, allowing us to support local people and families when they need us most.
Hospice care reaches far beyond hospice buildings. We provide support in people’s homes, in communities and through our hospice services, helping people live well for as long as possible and ensuring families are never alone.
No gift is too small. Every gift left in a Will helps protect hospice care for future generations and ensures that compassionate, specialist support remains available for everyone who needs it.”

Catherine Bosworth, Director of Income Generation and Grants at Hospice UK, said:
“Gifts in Wills are the lifeline keeping our hospices open. Every single hour, someone receives care that wouldn't exist without the generosity of people who choose to support hospice care in their Will.
Funding pressures continue to threaten hospice services at a time when demand is increasing. A gift in your Will to a hospice doesn't require parting with your money today, and gifts of any size can make a significant difference. Together, they help ensure hospices can continue being there for people and families when they need them most.”

For more information about the ‘This is Hospice Care’ campaign

or to find out how you can support your local hospice with a gift in your Will, please visit thisishospicecare.org.uk