Christmas appeal to support the city's care experienced young people

Young people with care experience often find Christmas a difficult time since many do not have family around them, and this Christmas is likely to be especially difficult with the rising costs of living.

As well as a beneficiary of the ‘Mission Christmas’ appeal with Metro Radio the council is also looking for local businesses, or residents who are able, to buy items from the online ‘Wishlist for Care Leavers’ (Amazon.co.uk) to ensure that everyone is able to get a present come the festive season. Items include diaries, thermal mugs and hot water bottles and will delivered directly to the council.

Along with this the council is also taking donations for food hampers to further help those who might otherwise struggle through the festive period.

Cllr Sylvia Copley, Cabinet Member, a Growing City, Newcastle City Council said: “We know times are tough for many people this winter, but we would like to encourage as many businesses and residents as possible to help make Christmas special for our city’s care experienced young people. We will be hosting a Christmas celebration for these young people in December, and it would be great if this could include some gifts and essential items for them to enjoy over the holidays.”

Newcastle City Council continues to review and improve the support it offers to local care leavers which includes dedicated help from professional Leaving Care Support Officers, council tax exemption, guaranteed interviews for positions within the council and a newly launched free transport pilot in partnership with Nexus, Arriva, Go Ahead and Stagecoach, funded by the Integrated Care Board.

To discuss donating food hampers or parcels, please email Voice@newcastle.gov.uk