Preseli Pembrokeshire Senedd Member Paul Davies has led a debate on the importance of Wales’ hospice and palliative care sector; and called for a sustainable funding model to be developed to support the sector.
Mr Davies highlighted the case of Shalom House, a hospice that was based in St David’s, before it closed its door in October because of financial pressures. Mr Davies argued that a sustainable funding model would provide stability to a sector in crisis and urged the Welsh Government to prioritise the sector before more hospices are forced to consider reducing their services or close their doors entirely.
He also took the opportunity to highlight the outstanding care delivered by the Paul Sartori Foundation, based in Haverfordwest. The Paul Sartori Foundation offer a range of services and therapies, including a Hospice at Home Service all year round, with a 24-7 on-call service.
Mr Davies said, “I’m committed to doing what I can to ensure that there is far greater parity between the services delivered by hospices and the NHS, and a clearer recognition of the vital role they play within the wider health and social care system.”
“I believe the best way to safeguard the services that are being delivered in the community, is by developing a permanent, sustainable funding model for the sector.”
“Hospices are providers of expert palliative care, and the Welsh Government must do more to protect these essential services. Patients with terminal illnesses deserve better and so do providers.”
