Help is available at Christmas 

Earlier this week, I attended a Christmas party for members of the 'Hello' group. This group started around 10 years ago and its main objective is to help combat loneliness in older people and bring people together in a warm and friendly atmosphere. 

It was a fantastic party and there was a lot of fun and laughter in the room, as well as some delicious food and great music. Everyone had a wonderful time and it was a joy to see how the group has expanded over the years and how many different activities they provide. I had a chance to speak with many of the party goers and they all told me how much they really do love being part of the group. 

And last week, I was delighted to take part in the Salvation Army's Christmas Toy appeal. All of the presents were generously donated by the local community and then wrapped by a team of volunteers. This initiative, working with the Council’s Social Care Support team, ensures that some of our most vulnerable children and young people are given a Christmas gift this year. For some of them, it may be the only present they receive so thank you to everyone involved in this wonderful appeal that brings so much happiness.

However, I know that Christmas can be a difficult time of year for many, particularly with the ongoing cost of living crisis and many families will be feeling financial pressures as we go into the festive period. There are many ways in which residents can access support and guidance through our Cost of Living Support on the Council website.

There are also many other groups and organisations supporting people at Christmas and below are some of the other ways in which residents can receive support:

Trinity Church in Sutton still has places on its Christmas Day dinner for those who are alone and would like some company on Christmas Day.
Sutton Food Bank is an emergency service supporting Sutton residents experiencing crisis.
Sutton Mental Health Foundation provides support for people within the London Borough of Sutton who suffer from mental distress.
Sutton Community Food shop aims to support Sutton Housing Partnership residents to access affordable food and targeted support. 

I’d like to thank all of the volunteers from across the borough who generously give up their time and donate goods and gifts and make all of this possible. If you would like to help out over the festive season please contact the organisations directly.

Councillor Ruth Dombey
Leader of the Council