A time for giving

We are now in Advent, a time to prepare for Christmas. It’s usually a pretty expensive task: presents, decorations and mulled wine do not come cheap. Despite this, year after year we are overwhelmed by the response of readers to our Christmas charity appeal. Your kindness has raised more than £23 million in 26 years.

This year we are collecting for three wonderful causes. Blue Cross helps to treat and rehome more than 35,000 sick and homeless animals every year – as well as offering support to anyone grieving the loss of a pet. And the Heads Together campaign aids the work of several brilliant mental health charities. They provide help to those who need it, raising awareness and tackling the stigma of mental health problems.

Finally, the Roald Dahl Charity funds specialist nurses, research and family grants for children in greatest need. The late author developed a lifelong respect for the medical profession from personal experience of injury and loss. His widow, Felicity, told this newspaper: “Because of all the desperate tragedies he had been through, he never gave up. He always thought that this child, this adult, could be saved. There had to be a way.”

The appeal is ongoing, but today is our special phone-in day – your chance to speak with

Telegraph staff and make a donation. The number to call is 0800 117 118, or go to telegraph. charitiestrust.org. Last year, the phone-in alone raised almost £62,000, once Gift Aid had been reclaimed. We thank you in advance for your generous support of these fine, deserving causes.