It's no secret that this winter, many people in the UK will be struggling - some with their most basic needs, like heating or food. According to a report completed this year by independent social change organisation, the Joseph Roundtree Foundation, 14.5 million people in the UK are currently living in poverty, and the numbers are set to rise even further in the coming months.
While this is may seem like an insurmountable problem, there are ways we can help. The University prides itself on being a community committed to supporting the most vulnerable and showing solidarity with those in need - especially during times of difficulty. This season, the C&I team would like to share a number of works being run in and around Bath, and the University itself, to try and make everyone's holidays a bit easier and a little more comfortable. Read on to find out about ways you can contribute and share the spirit of community that we work to embody every day at Bath.
Charities and University Collections
- Genesis Trust is a local charity which aims to meet the needs of hungry, homeless and vulnerable people in Bath and nearby areas with a series of interlinked projects. These projects range from running food banks to volunteering, to donating gifts across the winter season and selling Christmas cards and calendars to raise money. The University is currently running an on campus food collection in aid of Gensis Trust so if you are able to contribute, please consider doing so. You can find out more about Genesis Trust's work - and what they're involved with over Christmas - via their Christmas help page.
- The University is running a Secret Santa Appeal where you can donate sweet treats, toiletries and nice nibbles to be placed unwrapped in the 'donate' box in the Chaplaincy foyer. You can find more information about this via the webpage or by contacting Aylene Clack from the Chaplaincy.
- Bath Foodbank is another organisation which works to feed vulnerable people who need support, particularly during the winter months when nights are longer and colder. Visit their Christmas FAQs page for information on the most needed food items this Christmas and ways you can donate, now and beyond the holiday period.
- St Michael's Without Church is running a 'Carols and Cake' evening on Monday 19 December, from 6:30pm. This is a relaxed and informal candlelit evening of Carols performed by “The Monday Singers” led by Matt Finch. The evening will include community carol singing, with cake and drinks available from the cafe throughout the evening. Tickets are just £7 per adult and £1 for children and can be purchased from the Monday Singers website, with all proceeds going to Developing Health and Independence (DHI), a charity which offers help with social housing, carer support and addiction for adults and young people.
- Bath Mind are now selling their popular Christmas cards! Cards can be bought in-store or via their website, with all proceeds going towards Mind and the invaluable work they do helping those struggling with their mental health.
- Bath Cats and Dogs Home are running their annual Winter Raffle! You can order tickets via the Home's website and all contributions go to animals in need this winter.
We hope this gives you a good idea of what charitable causes you can get involved with this winter and inspires you to give just a little bit extra, if you are able. Coming together in the spirit of the season, we can offer a lot of comfort to the most vulnerable of our community and make this festive period that much better for everyone.
Respond
