A CHARITY that helps families all over Swindon and Wiltshire needs £200,000 to keep going during the next six months.

Jessie May Children's Hospice at Home is struggling through the pandemic as fundraising opportunities including money collections at supermarkets, volunteers spreading the word on the street, and taking part in events including the London Marathon are no longer possible

The charity says that the money it has to provide nurses for families in need of end-of-life care and other support services at their homes is "significantly dropping". It started a new urgent appeal for donations to help continue its important work.

Jessie May CEO Chris Roys said: “This coronavirus crisis is causing a huge amount of distress to our families with very vulnerable children. Our Jessie May nurses are still providing as much support as possible and visiting those in most need, in a huge collaborative effort to try and keep the children at home and out of hospital. But this comes at a cost.

"While our fundraising team is hard at work trying to recuperate some of the funds that we’re now missing out on due to the ongoing cancellation and postponement of events, there’s only so much that they can do on their own. Which is why we need your help.

"You can be the lifeline these families need. Your support is already so greatly appreciated, but if you’re able to spare any extra pennies or pounds you really will be helping families to continue receiving vital support."

To donate, visit jessiemay.org.uk/donate-now