The Tree of Lights Service’s £2.5k support cash

Head of fund-raising and voluntary services Caroline Scholz, fund-raising administrator Hazel Preston and Rev Graeme Harrison with the Book of Remembrance in the Chapel at Blackpool Victoria Hospital

The Tree of Lights Service took place at the beginning of December at Blackpool Victoria Hospital, and included the lighting of candles in remembrance of those who are no longer with us, as well as the opening of a book of remembrance.

The service and associated Tree of Lights Appeal is organised each year by Blue Skies Hospitals Fund, the charity for Blackpool Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, and the Trust’s Chaplaincy Department.

Now in its 10th year, the appeal raised a total of £2,405 which will be spent on providing Visitor Support Packs for visitors of critically ill patients who require comforts without leaving the bedside.

Money will also be spent on enhancing bereavement care across the Trust.

Head of fund-raising and voluntary services Caroline Scholz said: “We are thrilled that once again so much has been raised to benefit Bereavement Services through our Tree of Lights Appeal. This money will be used to help those who find themselves in extremely difficult circumstances while loved ones are critically ill in hospital.

“The event itself in December was very well attended, and we would like to say a massive thank-you to everyone who has donated as part of the appeal.”

The money will be spent on buying Comfort Care Packs, which include snacks, drinks and toiletries, to be given to the families of critically-ill patients.

Chaplaincy team leader Rev Graeme Harrison, said: “Christmas can be a very difficult time for people who have experienced loss, whether they are recently bereaved or their loss happened some time ago.”