UNCOMFORTABLE as it is, the coronavirus pandemic means many of us will be forced to confront death in ways we never could have comprehended just a few weeks ago.

This is difficult to process at any time, but even more so now, when anxiety is high, and we are unable to come together to support each other, attend funerals or even simply say goodbye.

We want to let your readers know that they are not alone. Marie Curie is here to help them.

As an end of life care charity, specialising in caring for dying people and their families, we appreciate how distressing this is for people.

If they are worried, caring for someone, bereaved, or working on the frontline, they can call our free telephone support line. Health and social care professionals can also use the service for clinical guidance.

If you're struggling to navigate the waters of this pandemic or would like someone to speak to, call Marie Curie support line free on 0800 090 2309 or visit www.mariecurie.org.uk/support.

In a time when we can’t hold each other’s hands or give one another a hug, we are here to ensure your readers are not in this alone.

Karen Torley, Marie Curie divisional general manager for North of England