There can be a lot of anxiety and fear for some patients and families about ‘making it to Christmas’ when receiving end-of-life care. The Hub receives a steady flow of calls in the run up to Christmas with people wanting advice on being away or out of their normal routine. Christmas Day is quieter, but those who need us, really need us. From Boxing Day onwards, demand increases as families call with anxieties or patients deteriorate after making a big effort to get through the festivities.

By being there. As well as the joys that Christmas brings, for many with a life-limiting illness and those they love, it can be a particularly difficult time. We provide a service where people can speak to a real person and receive same-day advice and support for as long as they need us – whether that’s five minutes or an hour. The Hub team are there for anyone who needs us every day of the year, including Christmas.