For DUCFS 2026, we are very proud to be partnering with Marie Curie in the North East, helping them to support those with terminal illnesses within our local community. We are aiming to fund Marie Curie UK’s Durham Companion's Service for two years, and North East Clinic Educator role for one year.

Marie Curie UK Companions provide free emotional and practical support to anyone affected by terminal illness. They provide comfort and companionship to patients, helping them find moments of normality through activities they enjoy such as gardening, shopping, or simply having a conversation, as they navigate the final stages of life. Companions also provide support to loved ones, and anyone affected by terminal illness, during both the end-of-life journey and through the bereavement period.

The North East Clinic Educator role is fundamental in providing high quality support and care. They train, mentor, and upskill staff, empowering them to provide compassionate, expert support to patients and families during life’s most difficult moments.

Beyond funding these vital and life-changing projects, we hope to raise awareness around terminal illness, end-of-life care and Marie Curie UK’s work as the UK's leading end-of-life care charity, providing support for all patients with any type of terminal illness.

Unfortunately, many of us, whether it is ourselves or a loved one, will be touched by terminal illness. Through this partnership, we hope to help ensure that even in life’s most difficult stages, people can still experience moments of comfort, normality and joy

We will also be supporting DUCFS Launchpad, our creative outreach platform. Through a series of projects focused on local community, arts, and music, Launchpad aims to ignite change in the North East.

This year we are also proud to be supporting DUCFS Launchpad, which is a branch of DUCFS that supports the local North East community through creative outreach projects. It's mission is to support and provide creative opportunities to the community members in the North East, contributing to fostering a vibrant and inclusive local environment.

We currently partner with four charities and community groups to support projects which align with one or more of these pillars. These include weekly art therapy sessions, a DJ School for young people in County Durham, weekly support for a refugee kid’s club, and craft workshops with an end of life hospice.

We would be so grateful for any donation to truly impact people and their families at the most difficult point in their lives. Thank you in advance for your generosity.

#GLITCH