A not-for-profit hospice has made the “difficult decision” to suspend patient admissions due to financial pressure, and appealed for help to continue operating.
Katie Rose Cottage Hospice, at Noosaville, issued a statement outlining the organisation’s economic position and the status of its planned stage 2 development.
The group stated that a significant decline in donations and no increase in state funding would impact services.
“The hospice has made the difficult but responsible decision to temporarily suspend the admission of patients,” the group stated.
“The admission of patients remains the hospice’s highest priority, however, this can only occur when funding levels permit care to be delivered safely, sustainably and to the standard expected by patients, families and the broader community.
“The hospice will recommence admissions as soon as funding conditions allow.”
The statement included more details on the group’s finances.
“Katie Rose Cottage Hospice operates within a mixed funding model,” it said.
“Queensland government funding currently contributes approximately one third of nursing costs only, with the remaining nursing costs and all operational expenses required to be met through community donations, fundraising activities and revenue generated from the hospice’s op shops and warehouse sales.
“Over the six months ending December 31, the hospice experienced a substantial decline in community donations, placing significant pressure on the organisation’s financial sustainability.
“In addition, advice received from the Queensland state government has confirmed that no increase in state funding (originally anticipated as part of the stage 2 development) will be provided at this time.”
The group issued a plea for help.
“To continue operating with nurses in place and maintain essential services, the hospice now requires urgent funding support,” it read.
Katie Rose Cottage Hospice remains deeply committed to its mission of providing compassionate end-of-life care to the Sunshine Coast community.
“The hospice exists because the community supported and voted for this service, and today it continues to care for many families across the region during some of life’s most difficult moments.
“However, without urgent community and donor support, the hospice’s ability to continue operating is at serious risk.
“We need help. Without support, we may not be there for the families who need us most.”
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The group also provided an update on its proposed stage 2 of expansion: a large building to accommodate a nurses’ station, consulting/counselling room, a family visitors’ area and toilet/bathroom facilities.
Stage 1 was for new entrance and exit, more parking spaces, upgrade to the sewage treatment system, renewed retaining walls and better driveway coverage, from loose metal to concrete. The improvement and additions to the facilities are a separate financial arrangement from the operations of the hospice.
“Revised federal government timelines and funding conditions have materially impacted the project’s ability to proceed with stage 2,” the group said.
“The hospice has been advised that the previously agreed project completion timeframe has been amended.
“While the original civil works contract anticipated completion by May 31, the revised requirement now mandates project completion by March 31, to allow for grant auditing, ministerial review and final sign-off by June 30.
“This revised timeframe has been advised as final and not subject to extension.
“Given that earthworks have not yet commenced and that required preparatory works, including site clearing and tree removal, remain outstanding, the hospice acknowledges that the likelihood of progressing to execution of the stage two contract is now unlikely.”
KRCH said there will be continued operations and community support.
“Katie Rose Cottage Hospice will continue to operate its op shops and warehouse sales, which are critical to the ongoing financial viability of the organisation. These community-based activities provide essential revenue and remain a key component of support for hospice services, staff, volunteers and future care delivery.
“The board and leadership team continue to actively assess all available options to stabilise funding, strengthen community support and determine sustainable pathways forward.”
