Battle to save Acorn's Hospice is "far from over" say council bosses

A full meeting of Walsall Council saw the plight of the Walstead Road facility discussed by members, who were also thanked by Acorns’ chief executive Toby Porter for their swift support of the hospice.

Acorns faced the threat of closure due to financial pressures created by a drop in donations and a rise in operating costs.

But it was given a ‘stay of execution’ until March 2020 due to a commitment of around £468,000 from NHS clinical commissioning groups, which was also backed up by £100,000 from Walsall Council.

A fundraising appeal to raise £2 million to safeguard the hospice’s long-term future has been launched while increased funding has been pledged by the NHS.

But at Monday’s meeting, members said support and donations needed to continue and warned the battle was not yet won.

In a statement read out by Councillor Richard Worrall, Mr Porter said: “We’re grateful beyond words to Walsall Council for recognising the importance of the care provided from our Black Country children’s hospice in Walsall and for understanding its impact for some of the most vulnerable families in the area.

“Your support directly enabled us to keep our Black Country hospice open to children and families until at least March 2020 and has given us time to seek the additional funds we need from the NHS and from the major fundraising appeal.

“Everyone at Acorns has been overwhelmed and deeply touched by the response to our appeal across Walsall and the Black Country and by the generosity and goodwill of people and elected representatives,

“What seems to unite everyone is a passion for Acorns Children’s Hospice care to be available for any family that needs it in the future.

“The swell of support has been truly humbling. We are hugely encouraged by the pledge of additional funding from the NHS nationally and locally and by the first two months response to the appeal.

“It shows we can reach our goal if this incredible support can be maintained.”

Councillor Tim Wilson, portfolio holder for children’s services, said he had asked other local authorities to match Walsall’s funding – one of which said it was keen to support while discussions continue with others.

He added: “We all understand and appreciate the benefits that Acorns brings to our families and our young people.

“I’m pleased to say a stay of execution was granted. But that’s not the end of the battle.

“There is still a £2million appeal that needs to be raised by the end of March next year. So please continue your support and keep donating.

Walsall Labour group leader Aftab Nawaz said: “We all support Acorns. But it is a service that I and I’m sure many other members feel should be supported by the Government. I think its about time central Government stepped up.”

Council leader Mike Bird agreed it is a central government issue and added: “It is one of those things that crosses political boundaries. Children’s health is above politics.

“I do believe we have an opportunity to make a difference. We are there as a catalyst to make sure it survives. But the battle isn’t over and it is still to be won.”