Marie Curie, the UK’s foremost end of life charity, has revealed it will cease to offer overnight hospice care at Lincolnshire residences. The service, a part of the charity’s agreement with the NHS Lincolnshire Integrated Care Board (ICB), has been a lifeline for many for two decades. Unfortunately, come March 31, 2025, the contract will not be extended, leaving many families and the charity itself concerned about the continuity of care.
Despite the harsh realities, the charity is striving for a two-month extension from the ICB, hoping to discuss the repercussions with affected staff and ensure a seamless transition. Alongside this, Marie Curie is hopeful that their other contracted service, the Rapid Response Service operating from 8pm to 8am, will endure.
Sue Morgan from Marie Curie voiced her dissatisfaction with the situation, stating, ‘We are concerned that quality of care will be compromised by the ICB’s decision to shift the overnight care model.’ She continued to express concern over the lack of funding keeping pace with rising care costs.
Nevertheless, Marie Curie will persist in its efforts to push for more investment in end of life care, ensuring that everyone gets the appropriate care at the right time, irrespective of their circumstances or location. The charity’s free information and support services will remain accessible for Lincolnshire residents.
The NHS Lincolnshire Integrated Care Board has assured that they are still committed to providing excellent end of life care. They stated that they are working to develop a strategy that ensures the best care and support for patients, and that they are disappointed at not being able to agree on a delivery model that includes the Marie Curie night service. As transition arrangements are made, Marie Curie night services will continue for the time being, they confirmed.
