Welcoming Hospice Care Week 2026

That the Parliament notes that Hospice Care Week is taking place from 5 to 11 October 2026, with the theme, Don't leave hospice care to chance, which highlights the inequalities that exist for people across Scotland in accessing end-of-life care; understands that hospice care eases the emotional and physical pain of death and dying, and enables people and their families to focus on living well right up until the end of life; notes that much hospice care takes place in people’s homes, enabling people to stay in familiar surroundings; recognises that Hospice UK reports that nearly one in three people do not get the care that they need at the end of their lives, and that where you live affects your chance of getting the care you need; understands that rising costs and increasing demand and needs are placing a strain on hospices; recognises that adequate and sustainable government funding is essential to enable hospices to meet the challenges facing the healthcare system and to continue providing vital care and support; appreciates the incredible and invaluable work of hospice staff across Scotland, and believes that everyone deserves high-quality hospice care, whoever they are, and wherever they live.