Branches of a charity in Darlington and North Yorkshire are teaming up to help older people facing a lonely festive season.

Age UK North Yorkshire and Darlington have partnered with Darlington Police to launch an appeal to help lonely and isolated older people this Christmas.

They are appealing to the public to donate gifts to help brighten their Christmas Eve.

Helen Hunter, CEO of Age UK North Yorkshire and Darlington, said: “Christmas can be a very lonely time for many older people who have no one to share it with. 

“Our gift box appeal is a simple way to show them that they are not forgotten and that someone cares. Each box is a gesture of kindness and a message of hope that can make a huge difference to their wellbeing.”

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It hopes to collect hundreds of gift boxes containing warm clothing, toiletries, books, chocolates, as well as Christmas cards or decorations.

These gifts will be distributed by the charity’s staff and volunteers alongside Darlington PCSOs.

Darlington PCSO Lucy Brown said: “This is such an amazing initiative, and we’d appeal to anyone to help even with a small donation. It’s heart-warming to see what a huge difference a knock on the door with a Christmas gift can make to any older person who is isolated or vulnerable at this time of year.”

The deadline for dropping off the gift boxes is Monday, December. 18 They can be brought to the charity’s office in Bradbury House, Beaumont Street West, Darlington, between 9am and 4pm, Monday to Friday.

For more information, please contact Age UK North Yorkshire and Darlington at enquiries@ageuknyd.org.uk or call 01325 362 832.