Healthwatch Rochdale supports the Homeless and Young People across the Rochdale borough this Christmas.

This Christmas, Healthwatch Rochdale has chosen to donate to Rochdale’s event for the homeless and to the Rochdale Council Christmas toy appeal in place of their usual tradition of sending Christmas cards.

Healthwatch Rochdale has donated brand new items to the value of £100 to the event for the homeless which is taking place at Rochdale Infirmary. Items donated included shower gel, shampoo, deodorant, gloves, travel mugs and thick socks.

We consulted our Youthwatch members to understand what gifts would be best for our young people in the borough who may not receive much this Christmas. We have purchased brand new items to the value of £100 to support the annual toy appeal. Items donated included stationary sets, diaries, and personal hygiene gift sets.

Healthwatch Rochdale is a socially responsible organisation. Donating to the event for the homeless and young people instead of sending Christmas cards would have a positive impact on the local community and reduce any negative environmental impact.

Kate Jones, Healthwatch Rochdale CEO, said:

“We recognised that a simple choice not to send Christmas cards meant we could donate to a local cause will help some of the most vulnerable in our borough. We decided to donate to the event for the homeless and young people in place of sending cards as it is a great way to spread some Christmas cheer in an eco-friendly way. We would like to thank all those who would normally receive a Christmas card from us for helping us to sponsor two such worthwhile causes.

On behalf of Healthwatch Rochdale, I would like to wish all professionals, our volunteers and residents who have worked with us over the last twelve months, a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.”

To find out more about the work of Healthwatch Rochdale please visit www.healthwatchrochdale.org.uk