Charities offering care and warmth at Christmas

Christmas can be a particularly challenging time for those without a home to call their own or someone to spend the festive season with.

While many people gather with loved ones to share meals and exchange gifts, thousands of homeless people across the west of England face isolation.

But many charities across the region are stepping up to offer a lifeline of warmth, nourishment and community.

This year, several charitable organisations will open their doors throughout the festive period, providing not just a cooked meal, but also the invaluable gift of companionship.

Based in the heart of the city, Caring in Bristol is a charity dedicated to tackling homelessness and supporting those in crisis.

Its flagship initiative, Caring at Christmas, provides a safe space for people experiencing homelessness and those who are vulnerable during the festive season.

About 400 volunteers help to provide support every Christmas.

On Christmas Day, the team offers hot meals, warm drinks, and a welcoming environment for those in need.

"It's somewhere safe and warm where people can get companionship," said volunteer Sophia Gibbs, who has been volunteering with Caring at Christmas for ten years.

"They can sit and have a chat with volunteers, and they can feel like they're part of a community at Christmas."

With the help of volunteers and local donations, Caring in Bristol ensures that no-one is forgotten during the time of celebration.

"No one that volunteers here feels as though they're giving up anything," she added.

"We get so much from helping at the project, and for a lot of us, Caring at Christmas is a huge part of our lives."

Cheltenham Open Door is a charity committed to supporting vulnerable and socially isolated individuals in Gloucestershire.

On Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and Boxing Day from 09:00 - 18:00 GMT it will be offering free hot meals, festive entertainment, and a sense of belonging to those who might otherwise spend the holiday season alone.

Run by a dedicated team of volunteers, the charity, founded in 1992, provides a warm, welcoming space for people experiencing homelessness, the elderly, and anyone facing hardship.

"We have a variety of guests, and they come to us for different reasons," said trustee Eleanor O'Kane.

"For some people, it's really just a place to relax and rest.

"But we also have services, such as showers, washing machines and free clothing."

Clevedon YMCA, based in North Somerset, will be open over the Christmas period and is offering a free cooked breakfast on 30 December for anyone who wants some company or is struggling.

"The period between Christmas and New Year is quite difficult for people," said Juley Howard, centre manager.

"So they've got a warm welcome here. We're open all over Christmas and carrying on in the New Year."

The charity will also be running its free coat rack initiative which allows people to help themselves to a warm coat for the winter.

"We've given away about 150, maybe more coats over the last couple of years," said Ms Howard.

"They've all been donated by local people, so we're very grateful."

One man in Swindon is helping to spread joy and companionship throughout the town this Christmas.

Sylvester Okoli is hosting a Christmas Day meal at Meadowcroft Community Centre.

"It's for everyone," said Mr Okoli, who works as a barber.

"If you're on your own, if you're homeless. If you can't afford to put a meal on your table that day.

"Christmas can be a joyful day for a lot of people, but unfortunately, it can also be the most depressing day."

Mr Okoli said his inspiration comes from his late mother and father, who passed away 20 years ago.

He has been running the event for the past three years in collaboration with Route 8 Barbers and Justi's Hair and Beauty.

A delivery service is also available for the elderly or housebound.

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