Christmas is coming – and ROCSOLID supported housing charity in Newton Aycliffe is looking for gifts for the vulnerable people it accommodates.

The charity, based in Hope house, Burnhope, supports teenagers, young families and adults, some of whom arrive with very few, if any, belongings. Many have been in the care system and have been homeless, or at risk of homelessness, and have vulnerabilities.

“We always like to make sure everyone gets something,” said service manager Mandy Shaw. “We have around 45 households we support – some of our clients are single and others have partners and children.

“We particularly need toiletries, pyjamas, food items or gift cards,” she said.

The charity, which has 14 staff, has just celebrated its tenth anniversary. Since 2007 it has supported 315 clients and has very positive feedback from other professionals, including social workers.

The charity was started when directors Dot and Derek Butler, who own Reach Out Care Fostering Services, in Newton Aycliffe, saw first hand some of the poor outcomes for young people leaving care.

The charity has around 45 units of accommodation, many of them owned by private landlords, who want to make a difference in the lives of vulnerable people.

Every client has an individual support plan and may go on to secure employment and independently of the charity.

If you want to help, you can drop gifts/donations off at Hope House (DL5 7ER) or call Steve on 01325 310009 (option 3) or 07714 961503.