Fighting Against Cancer Edinburgh (FACE)
Providing the little things that make a big difference for cancer patients and families.
Our Fighting Against Cancer Edinburgh (FACE) fund is run by a group of dedicated volunteers whose lives have been impacted by cancer in some way.
Thanks to generous donors, our dedicated volunteers work closely with NHS Lothian and NHS Lothian Charity staff to support patients, their families and staff, helping to make the time spent in the hospital more comfortable, and the environment and experience as positive as possible.
Here are some of the ways that your generous donations to FACE are helping people with cancer and their families:
Complementary Therapy
Complementary therapy sessions for cancer patients, so they can care for their wellbeing and enjoy some relaxation at the hospital.
Free Ice Lollies
Free ice lollies to help cancer patients with the side effects of cancer treatment. These cold treats help to cool patients down if they experience hot flushes or provide temporary relief if they have mouth ulcers.
Creating healing indoor spaces
Refurbishment of a palliative care ward at the Western General Hospital, soothing images of sunsets and sea help to transform a once cold sterile room into a relaxing homely space.
Creating healing outdoor spaces
Upkeep and transformation of garden spaces at the Edinburgh Cancer Centre so patients and staff can get fresh air and take a break from the ward in a beautiful setting.
Annual Trip to Lapland
FACE also organises an annual trip for children and families impacted by cancer to meet Santa Claus in Lapland. This has been a wonderful experience for all who have travelled with us since the 1990s. It helps bring bereaved families together to create special memories at a difficult time of year. These trips also help to reduce isolation and help to form friendships amongst families families facing similar challenges.
In 2024, we celebrated 30 years of the trip.
Ways to support NHS Lothian Charity: FACE
Fundraise
Ways to Give
Thank you to everyone who got involved at EMF 2025
A massive thank you to all the runners who took part in the Edinburgh Marathon to raise money for our FACE fund. There is so much that goes into preparing for an event and then to take on the challenge, with so many of the runners doing it to help good causes close to their hearts.
A huge thank you to everyone who sponsored them, cheered them on and provided encouragement over the whole weekend.
FACE News
FACE: Spring Update
We’re excited to share updates on several projects that are taking place, particularly in the outdoor spaces around the Edinburgh Cancer Centre, helping to make them more welcoming, peaceful, and restorative.
A round up of festive activities from our FACE fundrai…
It’s been a truly special festive season for our FACE fundraising group, filled with memorable moments, heartfelt generosity and festive cheer across the community.
Celebrating Breast Cancer Research Advances During Bre…
At the start of October, we hosted a night of lab tours and presentations from leading NHS Lothian researchers and clinicians. During the evening, we reflected on the incredible impact your generosity has made.
Dentons Raises £14,000 in Support of Cancer Patients …
Dentons’ staff rallied together, organising an array of engaging activities – from soul-soothing yoga sessions and irresistible bake sales to exciting raffles and sponsored challenges.
Case Studies
Revolutionary Hovermatt Technology to Support Cancer Patients
The HoverMatt Air Transfer Mattress and HoverJack help nursing staff transfer patients in and out of bed without the need to physically lift them.
Michaelagh’s Story – Supporting Families Impacted By Cancer
Every year the FACE team takes children who have been impacted by cancer to Lapland, giving them a magical day where they meet the ‘real’ Santa.
Making Memories Matters – Enhancing Patient Experience Through Keepsakes
For patients and families facing a palliative diagnosis, creating and preserving memories can be a powerful source of comfort and connection at a difficult time.
Supporting Wedding Boxes For Patients Receiving End Of Life Care
We are privileged to support wedding boxes for patients who are receiving end of life care, providing a cherished moment […]
Lorna’s Story – Supporting Families Impacted By Cancer
Fighting Against Cancer Edinburgh (FACE) is one of our cancer funds based at the Edinburgh Cancer Centre of the Western […]
Get involved!
We are always keen to welcome new people to get involved in the work of FACE, and there are many ways you can support:
– Join our monthly meetings
– Support our events
– Suggest ideas and projects for FACE to support
– Choose to support FACE through your school Youth Philanthropy Initiative (YPI)
Meet the FACE team!
The FACE team is a group of dedicated volunteers who support the fundraising activities for FACE and help to progress the initiatives which make a real difference for patients undergoing treatment for cancer. The group, including our Fund Ambassadors, meet at our FACE monthly meeting to discuss what is on the go and how FACE can make a difference. They represent FACE, organise and support fundraising activities for FACE. They have close links with the NHS Lothian Charity fundraising team.
Fiona Taylor MBE – Fund Ambassador
Fiona is a Charge Nurse working in the Edinburgh Cancer Centre and in recognition of her services to cancer nursing she was awarded the MBE.
Morag Moore – Fund Ambassador
Morag is one of the Clinical Nurse Managers responsible for Cancer Services across Edinburgh & Lothians.
John Macaulay MBE
John is a FACE volunteer. He organises all aspects of the Lapland Trip and liaises with schools who choose FACE for their Young Philanthropy Initiative (YPI). John’s dedicated service to the community, through work in the police and with voluntary organisations, was recognised when he was awarded the MBE.
We are indebted to the kindness of individuals, families, organisations, schools and clubs who have donated money, held events to raise money for FACE or who have given us your time, energy and enthusiasm. Since 1990, over £1.5 million has been raised making it possible for FACE to make a real difference – as well as so much more time and resources to support FACE in whatever way they could. It’s amazing the support we have received over so many years. Thank you all so much.
Stay up to date!
Be part of the FACE community – follow the FACE team on Facebook for updates and inspiration and share these with your friends and family!
FACE is a cancer fund, part of NHS Lothian Charity. FACE was established in the 1990s and is based at the Edinburgh Cancer Centre, Western General Hospital (WGH), Edinburgh.