Christmas comes early for Carlisle families in need

Family Action supports families across the UK and has services across the county in Westmorland and Furness and Cumberland. 

Every year, the charity holds a 'Make Theirs Magic' campaign which supports any families who are facing hard times at Christmas, making sure that the holidays are special for all children across the country. 

Family Action Carlisle was able to provide 376 presents this year, which makes a huge difference to families who are struggling.

David Holmes CBE, Chief Executive of Family Action, said: “Every family deserves comfort and joy at Christmas, but with the high costs of food and utilities, many will find their holiday season stressful and difficult. We work with thousands of families across the Northwest and the country, and from the research findings and feedback from our frontline staff, we know only too well the challenges families are facing.  

"It is a stark reality that almost half of parents/carers surveyed in the Northwest expect to be in debt after Christmas and that over half of parents/carers surveyed expect that their mental health and wellbeing will be negatively affected, due to the worry of affording to buy Christmas gifts.”  

The charity identifies those who need help the most, and this year in particular has been really challenging for families across the UK, who are already struggling to make ends meet without the added worries of inflation or energy bills. 

The toy appeal has been a real benefit to a lot of families, with the charity inviting parents to come and choose from presents or vouchers, or even dropping them at home in some special cases. 

Mum, Hayley, said: "I’ve been handling Christmas a bit differently this year. I’ve even bought some presents in the January sales. I’ve got no idea how Christmas is going to look at the moment.  I’ve cut back, but I don’t know where we’ll find the money and I don’t think we’re seeing family at Christmas. It’s still a special day, it’s a home day for us."