MPs warn palliative care system is “unsustainable” as demand set to surge
8th April 2026
MPs have called for fundamental reform of palliative and end‑of‑life care policy in England, warning that the current system is fragmented, inequitable and unable to meet rising demand. The Commons debate on 5 March 2026, led by Rachael Maskell MP, centred on the findings of the Independent Palliative Care Commission and highlighted widespread consensus that existing arrangements are no longer fit for purpose.
MPs heard that more than 100,000 people who needed specialist palliative care last year received none, reflecting inconsistent commissioning across Integrated Care Boards. Funding levels vary sharply, with hospice support ranging from 23p to £10.33 per capita, while the absence of mandated 24/7 services leaves many patients reliant on emergency care. Demand is projected to increase by 42% over the next decade, driven by demographic change and rising multimorbidity.
The debate exposed structural weaknesses in the funding model, with most hospices receiving only 20–30% core NHS funding and depending heavily on charitable income. Workforce shortages, particularly in community and paediatric services, were cited as major barriers to early identification and integrated care delivery.
MPs argued for a nationally commissioned palliative care service, consistent standards, sustainable NHS funding and mandatory training across health and social care. Responding, ministers reiterated plans to publish a Modern Service Framework later in 2026 and confirmed new funding, while acknowledging unresolved challenges in workforce capacity, commissioning consistency and long‑term sustainability.