Liverpool Community Demands Reopening of Beloved Hospice Ward
Today, let’s talk about something that truly hits home—something deeply emotional and close to the hearts of many in Liverpool. It’s about the continued closure of the inpatient unit at the Marie Curie Hospice in Woolton and the wave of protest and frustration it has stirred among the local community.
It's been a year since the doors closed on this 26-bed facility, a place that once offered dignified end-of-life care for those with terminal illnesses. The reason? A shortage of specialised nursing staff. But the community didn't just sit back. They organised. They protested. They formed the Save Our Hospice campaign. And now, they’re back, still waiting, still asking— why is it still closed?
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On Saturday, campaigners gathered once again outside the hospice, wearing yellow t-shirts with bold slogans like "Save Our Hospice" and "Save Our Ward" . They held placards and voiced their frustration, not just at the closure, but at what they believe is a lack of transparency around funding. Many pointed out that the hospice has continued to receive funding from the NHS Cheshire & Merseyside Integrated Care Board over the past year, yet the inpatient services remain unavailable.
Lucy Williams, an independent councillor and former palliative care nurse at the hospice, was among the protestors. Her words carried both emotion and urgency. She questioned where the money has gone, expressing concern that funds intended for the hospice may be lost in a national pot, rather than supporting local care. For families who have fundraised in memory of loved ones who passed away there, this revelation has been heartbreaking.
Lucy also raised a powerful point—why not reopen even a few beds if the full unit can’t be restored immediately? According to her, “That’s better than none at all.” If Marie Curie can't run it effectively, she says, then the NHS should find another provider who can. People need this place. They trust it. They have history and memories there.
Meanwhile, Marie Curie says they are still working closely with the ICB to reach a sustainable plan for reopening. They stress that while inpatient admissions have been paused, the hospice continues to deliver community-based palliative care. But for many, that’s just not enough. Community care doesn’t replace the environment, support, and dignity that a full-time hospice ward provides.
As the protests continue, one thing is clear—this isn’t just about a building. It’s about compassion, dignity, and ensuring that people in their final days are not forgotten. The Liverpool community is speaking loud and clear: get the ward open . The question now is, who’s listening?
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