Data published by Hospice UK at the end of 2023, estimates hospices in Scotland are facing what has been widely reported as an ‘unprecedented collective deficit’ of £16 million.

What many people don’t realise, is that as an independent hospice, the majority of our vital income comes from public generosity and fundraising. This means if our donations are negatively impacted by the rising cost of living, we have to look to our limited reserves to meet the shortfall.

Despite this, the hospice did not lose focus or momentum as we concluded the final year of our ‘Adapting to a Changing World’ strategy. We also started to consider the shape and scope of our next strategy, which will run from 2024-2027, and will take us up to marking 50 years of our care and support across our area. Our team has without a doubt risen to the challenge of providing exceptional care to people at the end of their lives during a turbulent and uncertain time for the sector.

We are committed to reducing running costs where possible and strive to use public donations in the most cost-effective way possible.

Hospices are a vital part of Scotland’s health and social care system, and reflecting on the achievements this year, the impact we’ve made is testament to the value we bring to the community.

If you support St Columba’s Hospice Care, you’re supporting over 1,200 people in your local community to access vital services when they need it most. This report shows the impact we can have when we come together. It’s a collaborative effort and one that the entire hospice community should be proud of.

On behalf of all the members of the board of trustees, I would like to convey our thanks to you; our supporters, staff and volunteers for your dedication and ongoing commitment.
 

David Dunsire
Chairman of the Board of Directors