Partnership formed to help hard-hit families
First payment made in £5m campaign
A NEW partnership has been launched between Home-start, Fareshare, John Lewis and Waitrose which aims to help Britain’s struggling families during the festive season.
Parenthood is challenging enough in normal times, but the pandemic has added additional layers of anxiety, uncertainty and isolation.
Home-start Staffordshire Moorlands and Newcastle Borough have been there for families when they’ve needed support most.
As part of a network of 180 across the country, Home-start Staffordshire Moorlands and Newcastle Borough have moved essential support services online to stay connected with families through their team of volunteers, providing emotional and practical support, and linking families into other community services such as their local foodbanks.
The organisation has also seen social distancing and isolation placing enormous strain on families.
The new campaign with the John Lewis Partnership aims to raise £5 million for the work of Home-start and Fareshare through a nationwide effort to encourage communities and customers to embrace the Christmas spirit and give what they can.
Funds raised will enable Home-start to support families in communities across the country through volunteer visits and friendship, and Fareshare to support essential food provision for families in low income households.
An additional £1 million has been allocated to local John Lewis and Waitrose stores to work directly with local Home-starts and Fareshares to help families hit hardest by Covid-19. Together, the partnership aims to support at least 100,000 families.
Now the first cheque of £666 has been presented, which will be split equally between Home-start Staffordshire Moorlands and Newcastle Borough.
Louise Walker, senior organiser at Home-start Staffordshire Moorlands, said: “We are so heartened by this partnership and the legacy that will be created.
“We have seen an increase in the length of time families have needed our support as the impact of the virus has had many knock-on consequences in terms of mental health, financial worry and isolation from others.
“Families who ordinarily would be managing are finding the ongoing support of a volunteer or staff member is vital in maintaining their wellbeing and that of their children and building long term resilience.
“We are committed to being there for the families that need our services, both now in the midst of the pandemic and beyond.”
Peter Grigg, CEO of Home-start UK, said: “We have seen first-hand how the pandemic is pushing families to the edge, especially those already facing significant challenges in their lives.
“Working with John Lewis Partnership colleagues, customers and communities, we can reach more families and communities at this vital time.
“We are so proud to partner in this exciting ambition to transform the lives of thousands of families and children this Christmas and beyond.
“We have been overwhelmed by the kindness shown in our communities during the pandemic. But there is so much more to do.”
Pippa Wicks, executive director of John Lewis & Partners, said: “In a year like no other, the world has changed – so we will be delivering a Christmas campaign like no other. During 2020 we’ve seen some inspiring and heartwarming acts of kindness throughout our country and our communities.
“Now we want to build on this spirit to create a legacy that extends well beyond Christmas. Together we can all make a big difference to the families who need our help most.”
James Bailey, executive director of Waitrose & Partners, said: “This year has created even greater inequality in society with a catastrophic effect on some of the most vulnerable, and we are determined to play our part in addressing this.
“Everyone has a right to nourishment and a safe, warm home, and we believe that as a partnership we can be an enduring force for good, which lasts well beyond Christmas.
“We don’t just want to talk about it, we want every customer, community and partner to show their kindness in supporting these causes.”