Cranford Hospice has welcomed the Government’s recent funding announcement as a
positive step forward for hospice care across New Zealand.

The current government funding level of 52.5% of the existing cost of Cranford Hospice
care highlights the ongoing gap identified by Hospice New Zealand, with hospices
nationwide relying heavily on community fundraising to bridge the shortfall. The
announced 2.66% uplift is an encouraging signal to the sector and recognition of the
essential role hospice care plays in New Zealand’s health system says Andrew
Lesperance, CEO.

Consistent with Hospice New Zealand’s advocacy, demand for hospice services
continues to grow year-on-year, driven by an ageing population and increasing
complexity of care. Cranford Hospice supports the call for a long-term, sustainable
funding model that ensures equitable access to high-quality palliative care for all New
Zealanders.

Cranford Hospice is also encouraged by the Government’s recognition of rural service
delivery, with an additional $80,000 allocated as partial funding towards our already
existing service delivery in rural Hawke’s Bay, including Central Hawke’s Bay and
Wairoa. This funding acknowledges the unique challenges of delivering specialist
palliative care across geographically dispersed communities and helps ensure people
can receive compassionate care closer to home.

“This investment is a positive step for our region and reflects the importance of hospice
services in supporting patients and whānau at some of life’s most vulnerable times,”
said Cranford Hospice CEO. “We remain committed to working alongside Hospice New
Zealand, Government, and our community to build a sustainable future for hospice
care, so everyone can access the support they need, when and where they need it.”