Christmas is a time to spend with loved ones, but for many of our service users this is not possible. Due to the additional pressures of the global pandemic, it will mean that patients within our services may not be able to have Christmas surrounded by friends and family.

For someone with dementia, or suffering with psychosis, for young people with anxiety and depression, for people with a learning disability or autism, imagine the challenge. A hospital admission at this time of year could mean no visits from friends and family. It could mean struggling to understand why no-one comes to see you, why you can't socialise with fellow patients unless socially distanced or wearing masks. Imagine how confusing and frightening this could be. Imagine how your mental health could deteriorate further as a result.

The festive season is well documented to be a potentially difficult time for all people, and even more so for people who may have deteriorating mental health.

All money raised will help us to continue to provide Christmas items this year and in the future.

Please donate anything you can; show kindness to a friend you'll never meet and help Heads On provide the best Christmas possible.