Most of us hope that when our final days approach we will be surrounded by love from our family and friends.

But patients nearing the end of their life can experience loneliness and anxiety. Many do not have loved ones to support them, and even close families can find it difficult to visit as much as they would like.

Palliative care staff at Watford General want every patient to have all the support they need at this most precious time, so they are working with Raise, the hospital's charity, to launch this new appeal.

Liz Sumner, Palliative Care Team Leader, explains:

"We've been developing our Rose project to promote dignity and compassion for our dying patients. At the heart of the initiative will be a team of volunteers, specially trained to provide patients with companionship, a listening ear and a comforting hand to hold when they need it most. Families need our help too, whether its a shoulder to cry on or the reassurance of knowing that a volunteer can sit with their loved one if they can't be there.

"The majority of hospital deaths are to be expected and up to four people a day could benefit from our end of life care at Watford General. We are looking for £50,000 to fund the Rose Project for two years, that's just £17 for every patient who might need us.

"We only get one chance to get this right, so we are asking you to please show your compassion and support our appeal. Thank you."

The 'small print': Raise will have regard for your wishes but they will not be treated as binding unless such a restriction is placed. This ensures that we can direct funds towards the greatest need if circumstances change. Please contact us if you require a further explanation.