Children’s hospices such as Acorns depend on charitable donations, fundraising, and crucially Government support through schemes like the Children’s Hospice Grant. However, uncertainty over the future of this funding threatens vital services.
Following discussions with the leadership at Acorns Children’s Hospice, Dr Neil Shastri-Hurst learned of growing concerns that this uncertainty may lead to reductions in care. The inability to plan ahead puts essential palliative services for vulnerable children and their families at risk.
In September 2024, Neil led a cross-party appeal, writing to the Chancellor of the Exchequer to request a five-year guarantee for the Children’s Hospice Grant with annual inflation-linked increases. His letter was co-signed by a number of fellow West Midlands MPs.
Ahead of the Autumn Budget, Dr Shastri-Hurst met Acorns’ representatives and families in Parliament to reiterate his commitment to the campaign. Although the Budget confirmed £26 million in funding for 2025/26, it fell short of the long-term certainty hospices require.
For the third year running, Acorns has launched a public campaign to protect this essential funding. Despite the critical care they provide, the Children’s Hospice Grant remains without a long-term guarantee.
Dr Shastri-Hurst continues to urge the Government to secure the Children’s Hospice Grant, or an equivalent funding mechanism, for at least five years with annual inflation-linked increases. He reinforced this message in another letter to the Chancellor in July 2025.
Locally, Acorns has supported 13 children and 26 families over the past year. Ensuring the sustainability of such support remains a key priority for Dr Shastri-Hurst.