HOSPICE care for tens of thousands across Britain is at risk without vital funding donated from wills, a charity warns.

Hospice UK revealed that £294 million in legacies funds the equivalent of hospice care for 30,000 people, or 6,000 nurses a year.

The charity has now brought together a coalition of 143 hospices to shine a light on the “critical role” of gifts left in wills.

Catherine Bosworth, from Hospice UK, said: “While the injection of government funds has provided much-needed support for the sector, hospices rely on gifts in wills to continue offering the exceptional care people need.”

The campaign is backed by comedian Jo Brand, whose brother died at a hospice in 2021.

She said: “I’m so grateful for the kindness and care shown to us by the hospice staff and that’s why I’m delighted to be supporting such an important cause.

“Legacy gifts, no matter how small, make a huge difference — so I’d encourage you all to consider supporting your chosen hospice.”