YEARS of underfunding have left Scottish hospices “stretched to breaking point” and two thirds have either made cuts or plan them for the coming year, according to Hospice UK.

A survey of Scotland’s 14 hospice organisations found of the 13 which responded, seven had already made cuts and a further three will implement them next year.

Urging the Scottish government to provide dedicated funding for the services in next month’s budget, Hospice UK’s Helen Malo said: “These are the services that should be growing to meet rising demand.

“But years of underfunding have left them stretched to breaking point, with many now being forced to cut services at a time when they’re needed more than ever.

“Without urgent action, more families will face the end of life without the expert care and compassion they deserve.”

Scottish Labour deputy leader Dame Jackie Baillie’s said: “The sector has been sounding the alarm about mounting financial pressures for years, but the SNP’s response has been too little too late.

“The Scottish government has no excuse for not helping hospices.”

The Scottish government was contacted for comment.