Anum Qaisar MP at the summit of Ben Nevis

Nestled in the heart of the Scottish Highlands, Ben Nevis stands as the highest peak in the UK, providing a challenging yet awe-inspiring backdrop for this charitable initiative. It’s an odd place to find me - the Member of Parliament for a central-belt constituency and a novice climber at best - but I will be there for a good cause.

Airdrie-based St. Andrew’s Hospice are hosting their annual Ben Nevis Hike fundraising event, aimed at securing valuable funding for the hospice’s operations.

As I ascend the slopes of Ben Nevis, I look forward to witnessing the breathtaking panoramic views of the Scottish Highlands and embracing the camaraderie amongst other participants. Together, we hope can make a significant impact on the lives of those in hospice care, their families and the incredible, and irreplaceable, hospice staff.

Beyond the immediate benefits to the hospice, the charity hike up Ben Nevis has the potential to raise awareness about the importance of end-of-life care and the support that hospices provide to individuals and their families. Now, more than ever before, hospice’s around Scotland need our support to help them overcome the challenges created by this cost of living crisis.