Marie Curie is ready to listen

WITH Christmas upon us, this year more than ever we will want to celebrate and spend quality time with the people we love — even if that might look different than we expected.

People who are approaching end of life, or coping with a bereavement, might find the festive season a difficult and overwhelming time of year.

In every corner of Northern Ireland, people will spend this Christmas caring for someone with a terminal illness, during what could be their last one together.

Tens of thousands of people have also been bereaved since the beginning of the pandemic and with every death comes grieving friends and family.

Many of your readers in these situations may find themselves struggling to cope with the demands and pressures of the festive season, or feel isolated and don’t know who or where to turn to for extra support.

Marie Curie-trained support officers can provide practical information on everything from managing day-to-day with a terminal illness to planning ahead. We also offer emotional support if someone needs to talk.

We have a dedicated bereavement service, where callers will be paired with a volunteer, who can offer a regular listening ear, as well as a check-in and chat befriending service that lets you arrange a call back from our support line at a time that suits you, whether you need support or just someone to talk to.

Call Marie Curie for free on 0800 090 2309. Alternatively, visit mariecurie.org.uk/support to chat online, or to find out other ways we can support you.

MATT WILLIAMS

Head of information, Marie Curie