Barnsley Hospice has launched an urgent appeal for funds during the coronavirus outbreak.

The hospice needs to raise over £2 million each year to continue to provide care for patients with progressive, life-limiting illnesses and support for their families, but it is already losing £2,300 per day due to the COVID-19 crisis.

Barnsley Hospice is now urging the people of Barnsley to get behind its urgent appeal to raise money so it can keep its doors open for the next few weeks and months.

People are encouraged to donate from the comfort of their own home. They can do so by making a one-off donation online at www.barnsleyhospice.org/donate; setting up regular giving via direct debit, or playing its weekly lottery.

Julie Ferry, chief executive at Barnsley Hospice, said: “The coronavirus outbreak is having a devastating impact on the hospice. Our shops are now closed and many of our fundraising events have been cancelled or postponed. We know this is a worrying time for everyone, but we are appealing to the people of Barnsley to not forget about their local hospice.

“Our incredible Inpatient Unit staff continue to deliver compassionate end-of-life care for the most vulnerable people in our community. We need help now more than ever in these unprecedented times. Any donation, however big or small, really will make a difference.”

To find out more about the appeal, and to read the latest information from Barnsley Hospice on how the coronavirus is impacting them, please visit the website at: https://www.barnsleyhospice.org/coronavirus-urgent-appeal/