South Scotland region MSP Michelle Ballantyne has called for more financial support for palliative care charity Marie Curie.

Mrs Ballantyne held a video meeting with representatives from Marie Curie to discuss the impact the COVID-19 pandemic has had on their services.

The meeting revealed that Marie Curie had to suspend fundraising collections and events in March 2020 due to the lockdown.

The charity received a Government grant which has allowed it to continue to operate on its reduced funds. However, that money will soon run out and alternative means of fundraising will be required.

Mrs Ballantyne has submitted a motion in the Scottish Parliament recognising the work of Marie Curie in South Scotland and highlighting the fundraising challenges that they currently face.

Michelle Ballantyne MSP commented:

“Marie Curie nurses and volunteers have been invaluable during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“They spend hours at time in the homes of their patients offering both physical and emotional support. This provides comfort to people with terminal conditions as well as much-needed respite for their family members.

“During the lockdown, efficient procurement of PPE by Marie Curie meant that this service continued without interruption and has afforded stability to those most in need.

“Proactive measures such as the founding of the Marie Curie NHS Lothian COVID-19 Rapid Response Service have also been instrumental in offering people support during this ongoing public health crisis.

“For these reasons it is important that Marie Curie is able to develop a new fundraising strategy to continue its work. I hope that the people of South Scotland, as well as the Scottish Government, recognise and support the work of Marie Curie and assist in future fundraising efforts to ensure that their service can continue for many years to come.”