Marie Curie urges people to get together to fundraise this Christmas

A leading charity is urging people to help “bring care, comfort and joy” and fundraise for its Christmas Appeal.

Marie Curie, the only palliative and end of life care nursing charity caring for patients throughout Northern Ireland, believes “everyone experiencing death, dying or bereavement should be able to have the best Christmas possible”.

It is encouraging people to host a festive-inspired event, such as Christmas quizzes or coffee breaks

The charity, which is dependent on fundraising and public donations, hopes people will host events such as Christmas quizzes or coffee breaks to raise money.

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Catrina Rafferty, a nurse from Killough, Co Down, said: “Our nurses and healthcare assistants and their support staff will be working throughout the festive period in people’s homes, and in our hospice to bring care and comfort to people at the end of their lives and their family members.

“We know that while it’s an extremely distressing time for the patients and their families, our work helps the person and their loved ones cope at one of the most critical times in their lives.

“We appreciate your continued support of our nursing care and support.”

Phil Kane, a Marie Curie community fundraiser, added: “We want you to get together with your communities, whether that be friends, family, or colleagues to share some festive joy whilst raising vital funds, for a vital service.

“You can organise something intimate like a coffee morning or Christmas lunch or get your whole gang together for a party to show off your best festive jumpers.

“Christmas can be challenging for many, and we know many homes are affected by the cost of living.

“We appreciate every donation, of any size.”

For more information, please visit mariecurie.org.uk/collect