Sutton and Cheam MP says NI hike on Hospices “utterly cruel” on visit to threatened local hospice

Liberal Democrat MP for Sutton and Cheam Luke Taylor has called on the Government to exempt hospices from the rise in National Insurance.

Speaking on a visit to St Raphael’s hospice in Cheam, he said that the proposed hike in contributions could be the “tipping point” that pushes already strapped hospices into closure.

On the Government’s delay in announcing details of financial support for the sector, Taylor said hospices “needed clarity yesterday” and that “the clock is ticking” to save critical services.

He recently introduced a Presentation Bill to Parliament that would force the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care to review options for a long-term funding deal for hospices, including funding from NHS England.

Sutton and Cheam MP Luke Taylor said : 

“It breaks my heart to be coming back to St Raphael’s and once again hearing the fear and uncertainty that the amazing staff here feel.

“This tax hike will cost this amazing hospice an estimated £139,000 per year”

“I think the message to the Government is clear - hiking N.I. contributions on hospices when they are already in financial hardship is utterly cruel and misguided.

“Wes Streeting’s pledge for more funding brings little comfort to the sector when he has yet to confirm when that funding might be brought about - and it doesn’t address the fact that this hike shouldn’t be happening in the first place.

“This vital sector needed clarity yesterday, and the clock is ticking.

“The Government must listen by first scrapping the N.I. hike and then confirm a proper long-term funding arrangement for hospices.”