Hugh Grant Says 'Use Marie Curie Nurses'

More than half of Northern Ireland's population don't know the Marie Curie Nursing Service is available to them locally.

A new survey commissioned by Marie Curie Cancer Care's ambassador, actor, Hugh Grant reveals that while 79% of the UK population are aware of Marie Curie Cancer Care 54% of people living in NI don't know the service is available to them. Few also know how to access the service – more than two in five responded "don't know" when asked how they would go about getting a Marie Curie Nurse.

The well known British actor, (pictured here with nurse, Martina Kennedy), said: "I know from my own experience how important it is to have someone you love die at home, cared for by a Marie Curie Nurse.

"So my message for the campaign is - nearly everyone in the country has access to the Marie Curie Nursing Service.

"People don't need to wait to be offered a Marie Curie Nurse - you can ask your GP, your district nurse or go to the Marie Curie Cancer Care website for more information," he said.

Paula Heneghan, Area Manager for Marie Curie Nursing Services in Northern Ireland, commented: "Marie Curie Cancer Care is working to double the number of people who have the choice to die at home surrounded by their families.

"Key to achieving this aim is to ensure that people are aware that our services are available to them locally.

"There is a Marie Curie Nursing Service available to anyone in Northern Ireland who needs it.

"Ask your GP, your district nurse or visit our website for more information."

A series of local nursing appeals are being launched around the UK to raise money to fund the local Marie Curie Nursing Service.

The charity is also calling on local businesses, trusts and individuals to consider making a significant donation to fund a Marie Curie Nurse, in their local area for a year, which costs the charity £19,000.

(GK/BMcC)