Christmas carol service to help carers’ charity

The University of Dundee’s annual Candlelit Carol Service will take place online this year, with viewers to be encouraged to make donations to Dundee Carers Centre, which offers practical and emotional support to unpaid carers of all ages, and disabled people.

A highlight of Dundee’s Christmas celebrations, the event is hosted by the University’s Chaplaincy team and will feature carols sung by the University choirs and lessons read by students and staff.

The service will be broadcast online for free via the University of Dundee YouTube channel from 5pm on Sunday 13 December, with those watching asked to make a donation to support the work of the charity.

The Rev Dr Fiona Douglas, University Chaplain, said that the pandemic has highlighted the importance of charities like Dundee Carers Centre, and the crucial role they play in our communities.

“This year the sense of separation, loneliness and loss will be sharply felt,” she said. “It is important, therefore, to come together as one community at Christmas.

“I am sure we have all missed loved ones, friends, or even neighbours, throughout this pandemic, but for many having daily contact with others is a lifeline. Dundee Carers Centre has always done such incredible work and never has it been as important as it has been throughout 2020.

“This online service will be an opportunity to bring people from across Dundee and the world together in celebration and joy. Wherever you may be, we hope you can join us.” 

Every year the Chaplaincy nominates a local charity to receive a collection taken at the service. Last year’s beneficiary, SCM, received more than £1100 to assist with its work in providing financial support for families of stillborn children.

Although this year’s event will take place online, viewers can make a donation via the Dundee Carers Centre website. The charity offers practical, emotional and peer support, along with dedicated services for young carers who often have to juggle school work and caring for a family member.

Lucinda Godfrey, Chief Executive Officer at Dundee Carers Centre said, “We are delighted to be the charity beneficiary this year of the University of Dundee’s Candlelit Carol Service. 

“For over 30 years, Dundee Carers Centre has been providing information, advice, support and services to people who care for a family member, neighbour or friend and disabled people. This pandemic has had a significant impact on carers, disabled people and their families and it is important that they know there is support available to them. The Candlelit Carol Service will help raise awareness of this and raise much needed funds for the work that we do.

“We would like to thank everyone who has donated so far and to the Chaplaincy Centre and the University of Dundee for involving us and helping us raise awareness of the support available.”