SUE Ryder Manorlands is encouraging the public to support their local hospice during Hospice Care Week.

The theme for this year’s week – which runs from October 8 to 14 – and is led by palliative care charity Hospice UK, is “Heart my Hospice.”

Lizzie Procter, hospice director at Manorlands, said: “Every year we support hundreds of people living with life-limiting illnesses to live life as fully as possible.

“We provide end of life and palliative care services, including medical and nursing care, complementary therapies, occupational and physio therapies, emotional support such as counselling and volunteer-led support.

“We receive 32 per cent from statutory funds while the biggest percentage of our costs are covered by the generosity of local people and businesses.

“We’re so grateful as year-on-year they show their support by volunteering, organising fundraising activities or taking part in our own events. Without them we couldn’t continue to be here.”

Among those helped by Manorlands is Gina Calpin, who lives in Mallorca but returned to England to look after her sister Lindsey who has been diagnosed with terminal cancer.

Gina said: “I’d never been to a hospice before and I’d no idea of what care services it provides. But the first time I walked through the door of Manorlands I felt enveloped with kindness and understanding.

“Staff are there for you, but you don’t need to say much. They understand what you’re going through just with a few words.

“I’d feel lost without them. Every week we attend the Manorlands drop-in service at Airedale Hospital and I really look forward to going there.

“Coming to the drop-in service is helping me immensely. Not only do I know I can talk to staff and volunteers if I need to, but I’m meeting other carers.

“It’s important to be able to talk to someone who is experiencing similar challenges. It gives me great strength.” People can call 01535 640430 or e-mail manorlands.fundraising@sueryder.org for details on how to support hospice care locally, or to make a donation.