Residents, businesses and community organisations across Southport are being urged to rally behind Queenscourt Hospice, which has launched an emergency fundraising campaign as it faces the most serious financial challenge in its 35-year history.
Southport and Northern Parishes MP Patrick Hurley is among those calling for everyone in the community to support our local hospice in its hour of need.
Since 1991, Queenscourt has provided exceptional palliative care for approximately 70,000 patients and their families across Southport, West Lancashire and Formby. The hospice operates an inpatient unit, delivers end-of-life care in the community and at home, and provides specialist support for patients and families at the most difficult moments of their lives, work that cannot be replicated or replaced.
However, Queenscourt is now operating at a £2 million annual deficit, driven by the rising cost of delivering care and a significant fall in legacy income, down from over £1.2 million a year to just £250,000. With just 24% of its funding coming from the NHS, the hospice has long depended on the generosity of the local community to sustain its services. That generosity has never been more urgently needed.
Louise Charnock, Executive Director of Nursing Services, said:
“Queenscourt has been delivering exceptional compassionate care for 35 years, and as we reach this significant milestone in 2026, we face the toughest financial challenge we have ever faced. Demand for our Specialist Palliative Care services has never been greater. Yet at the very moment need is rising, our everyday costs are escalating sharply, and our charitable income is falling.”
Dr Clare Finnegan, Executive Medical Director, added:
“Right now, our situation is unsustainable, and we are being forced to consider the possibility of reducing vital services. This is a step we never imagined we might have to contemplate.”
Patrick Hurley, MP for Southport and the Northern Parishes, said:
“That such a treasured institution, one that has been delivering exceptional compassionate care for 35 years, should be forced to consider cutting services is truly alarming.
“For thousands of families across our constituency Queenscourt has provided a place of dignity, comfort and profound care at the most difficult moments of their lives. I want to ensure that everyone continues to have access to the quality of end-of-life care that they need and deserve.
“I am calling on residents, businesses and community organisations across Southport and the Northern Parishes to support the Keep Queenscourt in Service campaign however they can, whether through donations, volunteering or gifts-in-kind.
“If you have concerns or questions about what this means for you or a loved one, please do not hesitate to get in touch with me directly at [email protected] and I will do my best to help.”
To support Queenscourt’s emergency appeal, visit queenscourt.org.uk/KeepQueenscourtInServiceor call the fundraising team on 01704 517420.
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