'Christmas is not an easy time for some – we're here to listen'

A former nurse who takes calls to Marie Curie's support line on Christmas Day says 'the need has never been greater.' Rachael Davis reports

- Rachael Davis reports

Joanne has worked for Marie Curie for four years

(Phil hardman/Marie Curie/PA Real Life)

A SOUTH Wales grandmother who gives up her Christmas Day to take calls to Marie Curie's free support line from people who are facing death, dying and bereavement says she "never minds" sacrificing family time to be there for those who need support.

Joanne Lewis, 57, who lives in Bridgend, has worked for Marie Curie for four years. She started her role as a support line operator on a temporary maternity cover contract before being found a permanent position, because she loved the job so much.

Funded entirely through donations, Marie Curie's support line is open every day of the week from 8am to 6pm Monday to Friday, and 10am to 4pm Saturday and Sunday. It offers free information and emotional support for people living with a terminal illness and their families, friends and carers.

This year, it celebrates its 10th anniversary of helping people who are facing death, dying and bereavement and Joanne says "the need has never been greater".

"The demand for the services and our calls on Christmas Day and Boxing Day rose last year to the highest level we've seen since the service began," she said.

"It might be a very different Christmas for some, sadly, who are grieving or trying to come to terms with the prospect of a loved one dying over Christmas."

While she has spent four years supporting people through Marie Curie, Joanne has had a long career of caring. She was a nurse for many years, but retired when her first husband sadly passed away in his 40s.