Chas is encouraging people to share uplifting messages during the coronavirus outbreak.

People in Scotland are being asked to show their support for children with life-shortening conditions as the coronavirus crisis continues.

The Share the Joy campaign, from Children’s Hospices Across Scotland (Chas), encourages people to think about what brings them joy in this challenging time and share it via social media or on the Chas website.

Suggestions include drawing a picture, creating a video, recording a message or simply writing a few lines of support which will be shared with children and families who might be feeling isolated.

The new campaign comes after Chas launched the UK’s first virtual children’s hospital in response to the changing needs of those currently in their care.

Iain McAndrew, Chas director of fundraising and communications, said: “We know that our supporters are incredibly committed to the children and families that we care for and we want to use these moments of joy to help bring laughter and light to families who are going through the toughest time. Keeping the joy alive is at the very heart of Chas.

“The situation we find ourselves in is unprecedented and with the launch of our virtual hospice, we are doing everything we can to ensure families are still able to access Chas services. But like any charity, this crisis is hitting us hard and we need your support more than ever to be able to help the most vulnerable children in Scotland. We ask that if you can, please share your joy with these families and donate to help us to continue to develop our virtual offering.

“We want to extend a huge thank you to everyone who has already shown their support and emphasise just how much of a difference you can make by sharing the joy with children and families who might be feeling alone in this incredibly difficult time.”

Messages can be shared at the Chas website or on social media using the hashtag #ShareYourJoy and the charity’s @supportCHAS tag.