CHRISTMAS is a precious time for many families, but even more so for many of your readers who may be cherishing every moment they get to spend with a loved one living with a terminal illness.

In fact, more than one million people in the UK are expected to be supporting a family member who has a terminal illness over Christmas, while trying to cope with the possibility that this could be their last together.

Caring for someone at home can be a very rewarding but also an isolating experience.

People often say that they don’t know where to turn to for help and don’t know what support is available to them.

For some, it may also be the first Christmas without a loved one.

Across the UK, from Christmas Eve to New Year’s Day, Marie Curie nurses will be working more than 3,500 nursing shifts, with the support of our referral centre staff who help get care to patients at home.

Our Cardiff and the Vale Hospice in Penarth will also be providing expert care around the clock with the support of staff and volunteers.

We’re also here if your readers have any questions about terminal illness, need support or just want someone to talk to.

Our free Marie Curie Support Line is confidential and open for extended hours throughout the festive period for anyone affected by terminal illness.

The Marie Curie Support Line will be open for extended hours from December 24 to January 2. For more information, visit mariecurie.org.uk/help or call the Support Line on 0800 090 2309.

Opening hours: December 25 (10am-4pm), December 26-27 (11am-5pm), December 28-30 (8am-6pm), December 31 (11am -5pm), January 1 (10-4pm), January 2 (11am-5pm).

Andrew Wilson-Mouasher

Divisional general manager

Marie Curie