Amid growing financial pressures on UK hospices, a charity is calling for the community to help celebrate the memory of lost loved ones this Christmas.

Herriot Hospice Homecare has launched its annual Light up a Life appeal, which encourages people to support essential care, and come together to honour cherished memories.

The appeal is dedicated to people like grandmother Joan Sidney, who was cared for by the Herriot HOME Team on Christmas Day last year and in the last weeks of her life before she died, at home in Northallerton, in February 2024.

Her extended family were able to gather in her home to celebrate the Christmas festivities.

Joan’s grandson, Josh, said: "It meant a lot to us all – to have Christmas at Grandma’s house and spend all day around her, rather than visiting a hospital and leaving her after a short time. Some of us were able to sleep over on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, without having to travel.

"The team’s visits gave us all a little more breathing space to enjoy time with Grandma, without worrying that she was too uncomfortable. Mum was able to cook an amazing Christmas dinner in the knowledge that the HOME Team had Grandma’s care covered."

Amid ongoing calls for increased government funding in response to risings costs and increased need, Herriot Hospice Homecare and its wider charity faces a significant additional £300,000 in costs following the recent Budget, with increases in employer National Insurance Contributions and the National Minimum Wage.

Tony Collins, chief executive of Herriot Hospice Homecare, which operates in Hambleton and Richmondshire, North Yorkshire, said: "The remarkable support from our community makes everything we do possible. As we navigate mounting financial hurdles and increased demand, this support has never been more crucial.

"We invite you to join us in making a meaningful difference this festive season – dedicate a light in memory of a loved one or contribute to sustain our mission of care."

This year, every Light up a Life donation will come with a tribute card honouring the dedication names. Additionally, donations of £30 or more will be celebrated with a new 2024 Christmas decoration – a token for people to display at home.

As part of the appeal, Light up a Life services offer an opportunity for the community to come together in reflection and remembrance. The gatherings will include readings, music, and the symbolic lighting of Christmas trees adorned with tributes.

Services take place at:

  • Herriot Hospice@The Lambert, Thirsk, on Sunday, December 1, at 3pm.
  • Ripon Cathedral, on Sunday, December 8, at 3.30pm.

For more details about Light up a Life and to donate visit: https://www.herriothh.org.uk/support-our-work/in-memory-giving/light-up-a-life/.