A nurse who works in one of the biggest hospices in Leeds has spoken out about the fear that hundreds of venues across the country could be forced to close without emergency funding.
Nicola Clayforth is a nurse at the Sue Ryder Wheatfields Hospice in Headingley, Leeds, which provides end-of-life care for more than 1,500 people a year.
However, more than half of their funding comes from generous donations and cash from its many charity shop - but the coronavirus pandemic has cut off their main source of income.
With people no longer taking part in charity races such as the Leeds 10K, the future for hundreds of hospices across the UK looks bleak.
While Sue Ryder has urged the government to fill the £12 million funding shortfall, Nicola has outlined the devastation that closure would cause to thousands of families.
In an open letter, the Leeds nurse urged people to give what they can to help them stay open.
"I am writing to you to tell you about the devastating impact the coronavirus crisis is having on us and how we urgently need your help," she said.
'Today, we find ourselves needed more than ever before'
"We are facing a huge challenge in the next few weeks. All of our shops have closed and nearly all of our fundraising activities have stopped resulting in a massive drop in our income.
"For the very first time we are finding ourselves in the position where we might not be able to afford to continue providing end of life care.
"We are so very proud of the work we do, the expert care we give and the vital support we provide to the NHS, thanks to our generous supporters.
"Today, we find ourselves needed more than ever before. It is devastating to think we might not be able to continue. I cannot imagine what our patients would do without us.
"This is why I am asking for your help.
"If we can raise enough money to help us get through the next few weeks we stand a chance. It will make all the difference.
"We are all facing something we have never faced before, which is why Sue Ryder has launched an emergency appeal.
"I am asking you to please, give whatever you can afford. Every pound you give could make the difference to whether we can continue to be there when it matters for local families in the future.
"It is that simple."
You can donate to Sue Ryder by visiting their website.
All visits to Sue Ryder hospices have been temporarily suspended to limit the spread of Covid-19, but staff are continuing to provide palliative care.
