By KLTV Newsdesk –

Forget Me Not Children’s Hospice in Huddersfield has launched an urgent fundraising appeal after revealing it faces a £1 million funding shortfall.

The charity, which provides vital care for children with life-shortening conditions, is also working to reduce its annual running costs by 12%, which could lead to job losses and changes in its services.

Funding Gap and Cost-Cutting Measures

The hospice, which relies heavily on charitable donations, is struggling with rising staff and energy costs, uncertainty over future government funding, and a challenging year for fundraising.

Gareth Pierce, CEO of Forget Me Not, explained: “We are facing a real-term gap of £1 million, and we must act now to protect our future and continue providing essential care to local families.”

In an effort to reduce costs, the hospice plans to cut £750,000 from its annual expenditure, which will involve difficult decisions, including potential redundancies for up to 16 staff members.

Pierce stressed that the hospice’s primary focus remains on the children and families they support, and they will do everything possible to minimise the impact on their care.

“We will continue to fight for increased statutory funding, but right now, we are forced to make some impossible choices. If we don’t act, we face an even bleaker future,” he added.

Support from the Local Community Needed

The hospice is calling on the local community to help by making a donation to its urgent appeal.

“Your generosity will ensure that children and families going through the darkest times continue to receive the expert care they need and deserve,” Pierce said.

Jeremy Cross, chair of the trustees, expressed deep regret over the possibility of making staff redundant.

He highlighted that without immediate financial support, the future of the hospice could be in jeopardy. “If we run out of funds, Forget Me Not won’t be here anymore,” he said.

National Concern Over Children’s Hospice Funding

The challenges facing Forget Me Not are being echoed by the wider children’s hospice sector.

Together for Short Lives, a national charity, has expressed concern over the financial struggles of hospices across the country.

Nick Carroll, CEO of the organisation, warned that the financial pressures, including rising National Insurance contributions, could jeopardise essential services.

Toby Porter, CEO of Hospice UK, also condemned the situation, calling for immediate financial investment into children’s palliative care.

He emphasised the importance of properly funded services and the urgent need for government support to ensure the survival of hospices like Forget Me Not.

A Lifeline for Families in West Yorkshire

Forget Me Not Children’s Hospice has been providing expert care to children with life-limiting conditions and their families for over a decade.

Rated ‘outstanding’ by the Care Quality Commission, it serves families across West Yorkshire both at its purpose-built facility in Huddersfield and in their own homes.

Despite the current financial challenges, the hospice remains committed to its mission.

“We are incredibly grateful for the ongoing support of our local community, without which we wouldn’t be here. We hope they will once again rise to the challenge,” said Pierce.

To support the urgent appeal, donations can be made through the hospice’s website at www.forgetmenotchild.co.uk/donate.

More information about the financial crisis and ways to help can also be found on the hospice’s site.