By Isle of Wight Observer
More than 4,700 people have already signed a petition calling on NHS commissioners to rethink plans to cut nearly £2 million from Mountbatten Isle of Wight’s funding over the next two years.
The petition, launched on Change.org, comes after confirmation that the Hampshire & Isle of Wight Integrated Care Board (ICB) intends to reduce its financial support to the Island’s only hospice by £600,000 this autumn, followed by a further £1.4 million cut in the 2026/27 financial year.
Combined, the cuts amount to a 40 per cent drop in NHS funding for Mountbatten IW. Campaigners say there was no prior warning or meaningful consultation and that the funds are being redirected to other areas, including hospices in Hampshire.
Mountbatten provides 24/7 expert end-of-life care both in people’s homes and at its inpatient unit in Newport. It’s John Cheverton Centre also offers outpatient, rehabilitation and community services. The site is used for events, concerts and support groups, and includes a popular café.
The hospice receives around one third of its income from the NHS, with the rest raised through donations, fund-raising events, charity shops and gifts left in wills. Its annual running costs total approximately £10.5 million.
Mountbatten is urging Islanders to take action by signing the petition and contacting NHS decision-makers, Healthwatch Isle of Wight, and local MPs. Supporters are being asked to share their stories and highlight the impact of the hospice’s work in the community
The petition can be found at iw.observer/stop-cash-cut.
Mal Butler