BALLOCH’S children’s hospice is asking the local community who usually donate Christmas gifts to consider making a monetary donation instead.

Due to current restrictions, Robin House is unable to accept donations of gifts like chocolate or traditional Christmas presents that are usually donated at this time of year.

Nicky Bridges, clinical nurse manager at Robin House, said: “Every Christmas the local community are so generous and we receive bags full of lovely Christmas presents and chocolates for all the children and families we support during the festive period.

“Sadly this year because of the pandemic, all Christmas gifts donated to the hospice would need to be quarantined for 72 hours before being given to any families to make sure there is no trace of the virus on them.

“Unfortunately we don’t have the space in the hospice to quarantine large quantities of gifts and due to social distancing restrictions, we’ve had to cancel our Christmas parties and celebrations where gifts would usually be handed out to families.

“Although Christmas for Robin House will look very different this year, we are doing everything we can to be there for the hundreds of families who rely on our vital support.

“Our activities team also has Christmas themed virtual events planned and we’ve been told that as Santa is a key worker, he might be surprising some of the children we support with a Zoom call.

“Any donation will help us to keep the joy live for children with life-shortening conditions and their families.”

Residents in Dumbarton and the Vale who would still like to donate a Christmas present to the hospice can purchase gift vouchers for supermarkets or online retailers to help support the families during the festive period.

To make a donation to the charity, visit chas.org.uk.