The Department of Health and Social Care and Manx Care have moved to reassure patients and families that hospice care will continue uninterrupted.
It follows Hospice Isle of Man’s stark warning that its financial position has become “increasingly unsustainable”.
In a statement earlier today, Hospice said it had been forced to make “very difficult decisions” to reduce costs, refocus its services and stop filling gaps in the wider healthcare system.
The charity said rising costs, an ageing population and government funding covering just 24% of its income had left it unable to maintain its current model without risking its long‑term future.
Hospice Cuts
In response, the DHSC and Manx Care said patients “can be reassured they will continue to receive the hospice care they rely on”, and confirmed that government is working closely with Hospice to maintain stability during the transition.
Its joint statement said: “Patients and families across the Island can be reassured they will continue to receive the hospice care they rely on.
Following today’s announcement, the Department of Health and Social Care and Manx Care are working closely with Hospice Isle of Man and across government to ensure that care continues with the compassion and dignity people deserve.
The Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) and Manx Care recognise the financial pressures facing Hospice and support its focus on core palliative and end-of-life care. As part of this, some services including physiotherapy, occupational therapy, psychological therapies and lymphoedema services will transition into Manx Care and planning is already underway to make that transition safe and smooth for patients.
To support Hospice during this period, Manx Care is working with Hospice to protect and maintain core services, including Hospice at Home and specialist nursing care.
A full review of commissioning arrangements for palliative and end-of-life care in line with the Mandate to Manx Care 2026-27 will be delivered by September 2026. This will establish the level of government funding needed to sustain core services and ensure these vital services are sustainable for the future.
DHSC and Manx Care remain committed to working in partnership with Hospice Isle of Man to ensure stable, high-quality care for the Island’s community.”
