Foyle Hospice is asking families, friends, workplaces, clubs and community organisations across the Western Health and Social Care Trust area to host coffee mornings during October.

The hospice said 42 coffee mornings were held last year. It wants to increase that number this year. The events raise funds for its specialist palliative care services.

Ailbhe McDaid, community fundraiser at the hospice, said fundraising does not require a big sporting challenge. A coffee morning can begin with one person deciding to invite a few neighbours, and repeated gatherings across families and workplaces can make a substantial difference.

She said the money raised is important, but the events also allow neighbours to reconnect and communities to come together. Even a small gathering can contribute to a larger effort, she added.

Sheila Duffy, director of income generation and communications at the hospice, said the charity has a long-standing relationship with the communities it serves. She described the coffee mornings as the result of many individual acts of generosity, including people who bake, make tea, donate prizes, open venues or contribute money.

Foyle Hospice provides specialist palliative care and support to patients and families across the Western Trust area. Services include inpatient and community palliative care, day therapy, adult bereavement counselling, support for children and young people through Healing Hearts, and specialist advice. These services are free at the point of need.