Local businesses and residents in Hounslow are being invited to help spread the joy this winter by making a pledge to support their community. Brentford FC Community Sports Trust have already pledged support through their Young Carers project – offering free Christmas hampers to young carers who are struggling with the impact of the pandemic.

The Winter Warmth campaign, led by Ealing and Hounslow Community Voluntary Service (EHCVS), in partnership with Hounslow Council, aims to support people in need this winter. The Council has provided a range of support and guidance to help keep people safe and informed during the coronavirus pandemic. Hounslow is projected to be one of the hardest hit boroughs in London due to the impact of Covid-19 and lockdown and it is estimated more than 40,000 jobs could be at risk. The Winter Warmth campaign is helping to address the impact by making it easier for people to find and offer help in their communities.

Carolyn Sellick, Volunteering and Communities Manager, Ealing and Hounslow Community Voluntary Service, said: “Ealing and Hounslow Volunteer Centre have been overwhelmed by the enormous contribution made by volunteers and charities during the pandemic. We recognise that many people want to help but can’t commit to traditional volunteer roles. We have developed our social action and giving page to allow everyone to help out in the effort to keep our communities safe, well and warm.”

Cllr Candice Atterton, Cabinet Member for Adults, Social Care and Health, said: “Through this year’s Winter Warmth campaign, we want to encourage those who are already doing their bit to support their neighbours to keep going. We hope others will be inspired to support their communities through the combined impact of coronavirus and winter. We are calling on local people to support our campaign by making a simple pledge. This could be anything from donating much-needed funds to a local charity, supporting a neighbour with their shopping, or donating to a local food bank. I have personally been inspired by a friend recently to support a local charity supporting homeless people.”

Businesses are also being invited to make a pledge to support local people or community groups in the borough. Our First Team players and staff are supporting the campaign, by creating a video which will be used to raise awareness of the Hounslow Community Foodbox service and encourage donations. As part of the campaign, The Hounslow Young Carers Project, run by our Trust, is providing young carers in Hounslow with a special Christmas hamper in December. This will be filled with a range of treats and wellbeing activity packs to provide support and recognise the amazing work the young people are doing.

Local residents and businesses should visit: ehcvs.org.uk/hounslow-social-action-giving to make their pledge and find out more about the opportunities available. Or call the EHCVS Hounslow Volunteer Coordinator on 07378 147 005. Do you know of a community group in need to add to our wishlist? If so get in touch by calling 07378 147 005 or emailing [email protected].