We're aiming to spread some real festive joy

THE Sunshine Fund is looking to raise £40,000 this Christmas to spread some joy to those in need of our help.

- By HELEN DALBY and SOPHIE REVELL

And here's what you need to know to join us as we try to reach that all-important goal.

The Sunshine Fund is a small North East charity that funds specialist equipment for children aged 0-19 living with disabilities, additional needs and terminal illness in our region.

This equipment is not available on the NHS yet it can make a significant difference to the day-to-day lives of kids with complex needs - and their families.

More often than not, this equipment has a much higher price tag than the 'standard' version.

For example, an adapted cushion could cost over £1,000, compared to a typical beanbag that you can purchase for £20.

All donations raised over Christmas will be used to fund The Sunshine Fund's most recent round of equipment applications, which totals almost £40,000.