St Columba’s Hospice Care joined Hospice UK at Holyrood last week for a special Hospice Care Week event, bringing together MSPs and hospice representatives to celebrate the vital role hospices play in supporting people and their families across Scotland.

The event was an opportunity to share the impact of hospice care, highlight the contribution hospices make to Scotland’s health and care system, and discuss the importance of a sustainable future for hospice care.

A particularly moving contribution came from Holly Smith, who spoke about the care her mum, Maxine, received at St Columba’s Hospice Care. Holly described how, within days of entering hospice care, her mum was no longer seen simply as a cancer patient, but as a person again. Her words offered a powerful reminder of the difference compassionate, person-centred care can make to people and their loved ones at one of the most difficult times in their lives.

Jacki Smart, Chair of the Scottish Hospice Leadership Group, highlighted the vital role hospices already play in Scotland’s health and care system, as well as their readiness to do more as part of wider public service reform.

It was also encouraging to hear Alison Thewliss MSP, Minister for Community Care, recognise the contribution hospices make and reaffirm the Scottish Government’s commitment to a funding framework and arrangements for pay parity for hospice staff.

We are grateful to Hospice UK and everyone who took part in the event for helping to shine a light on the importance of hospice care and the need to ensure it has a sustainable future for the people and families who rely on it.