Terminal illness charity Marie Curie has stopped all public collections, in a move that will lose the organisation an estimated £1 million.
More than 2,200 collections across the UK, including in Dundee, Fife, Perthshire and Angus, have been stopped with immediate effect due to the coronavirus crisis.
Further financial losses are expected with the cancellation of other fundraising activities.
The charity has asked the public to urgently consider other ways of fundraising, including donating online or by text.
The Great Daffodil Appeal, which runs throughout March, sees hundreds of volunteer collectors across Scotland hitting high streets and supermarkets to hand out the charity’s iconic daffodil pins in exchange for donations.
The money raised provides much-needed expert care to people with terminal illnesses and support for their loved ones, helping them to make the most of the time they have together.
The appeal also helps the charity provide practical information and support, fund research and campaigns for more people to have access to high quality, personalised care.
Marie Curie said cancelling its fundraising would impact its work which, it said, would be more important than ever over the coming months as the NHS focuses on dealing with covid-19.
Executive director of fundraising and engagement at Marie Curie, Meredith Niles, said: “It is with great disappointment that we have decided to cancel all of our Great Daffodil Appeal public collections due to Covid-19, as well as a number of other fundraising events that were due to take place over the coming weeks and months – a decision which has not been taken lightly.
“The health and safety of our dedicated volunteers and staff is of utmost importance.
“Where possible, we hope to be able to re-schedule collections and events for later in the year, and would like to thank all our volunteers, supporters, corporate partners and staff for their ongoing support at this challenging time.”
People can still donate online at mariecurie.org.uk/donate or via text text DAFF to 70111.
Anyone affected by a terminal illness and concerned about coronavirus can call the Marie Curie support line on 0800 090 2309 or visit the website mariecurie.org.uk/coronavirus
