Dorothy House is launching a special Christmas Appeal to make it possible for more families to be together at home during their loved one’s final days.

The charity is reaching out to ask for fundraising support to make sure that no one is forced to spend Christmas in hospital, away from their family, especially when it may be their last Christmas.

Last year it cost in excess of £5m to provide patients and families with the services and support they needed to stay at home, and the cost for delivering these services is expected to be even higher over the coming year.

Margaret Merritt, whose husband Vic recently received care at home, shared how much it meant to them: “Dorothy House care makes it possible for families to be together, at home, to the very end. My husband spent his final months and days in the comfort of his own home with his family around him.”

Dorothy House is aiming to make it possible for many more families to be together at home this Christmas, making precious memories with the help of their round-the-clock care. People can support this appeal by giving anything they can spare – a gift of £42 for example, can help Dorothy House provide two hours of support from an overnight carer in a patient’s home, allowing family members to rest in the knowledge that their loved one is in safe hands.

To give to this appeal, visit dorothyhouse.org.uk