THE ERIC LIDDELL COMMUNITY’S CHRISTMAS APPEAL URGES SUPPORT TO GROW CRUCIAL BEFRIENDING SERVICE FOR UNPAID CARERS.
The Edinburgh charity’s Christmas Appeal will strengthen vital Befriending Services.
The Eric Liddell Community, an Edinburgh-based care charity, has launched its 2025 Christmas Appeal to raise essential funds for their Befriending Programme, which supports unpaid carers. This year’s campaign invites the public to “give the gift of friendship,” helping reduce loneliness and isolation among carers. Any donation to The Eric Liddell Community will help the charity reach more unpaid carers, offering relief, connection, and stability as many navigate turbulent transitions and mental health challenges.
With over 1.7 million of Scotland’s adult population having provided unpaid care at some point, and 700,000 currently doing so, the demand for reliable and relieving support continues to grow. Many unpaid carers struggle to access long-term and meaningful help, which is where The Eric Liddell Community steps in. Its Befriending Service already delivers more than 2,500 hours of companionship each year, and with your support, it can extend this vital lifeline even further.
Hannah Rees, Fundraising Relationships Officer at The Eric Liddell Community, highlighted the importance of the Christmas Appeal:
“With around 700,000 unpaid carers in Scotland providing support for those with caring full time for loved ones with dementia, disabilities, or long-term illnesses, we are looking for your support in extending the reach of our essential befriending services. 82% of unpaid carers report dealing with mental health struggles, and during the season of giving, we ask you to consider making a donation.”
John MacMillan, CEO of The Eric Liddell Community, added:
“We are proud to welcome thousands of monthly visitors through the doors of The Eric Liddell Community, and with your support, we are excited to expand our offerings as we move into 2026. Your donation will make a significant difference, enabling us to reach and support even more unpaid carers facing daily challenges.”
To donate to The Eric Liddell Community’s Christmas Appeal, please click here.
