CHRISTMAS is said to be the most wonderful time of the year, but for some the cold weather, financial pressures and loneliness can make it a struggle – local charity Crosspoint want you to know that they are here to help.
Len Clift, chair of the charity says, “At Crosspoint drop-in centre, winter starts with forms from the Community Foundation offering help for those suffering from what is called ‘Fuel Poverty’. If you tick the right boxes, you can get reductions on your heating bill.
“Some people drop into the centre more regularly and stay longer, it’s warm in Crosspoint and home is cold. For those of our friends who are homeless and living in tents scattered around the edges of the town, warmth is a treasure.
“Short days and long nights can be a recipe for loneliness and feelings of depression, so a coffee or tea at the centre and a chat about life can help chase the blues away. Recently the BBC featured an article on how the numbers of suicides on the railways can be reduced by just a friendly word. This emphasises the importance of simple neighbourliness.
“For those who have reached the point where their needs are more demanding, we run sessions with professional counsellors in conjunction with Westbury Counselling Service. Self-referral forms for this service can be found at Crosspoint or at the White Horse Health Centre.
“Christmas is nearly with us so a ‘Happy Christmas’ to all of you who are reading this article. It’s a great time of the year with family and friends, but it can leave the finances in a mess. If you were having issues with finances before the Christmas period, then the festive season can be anything but happy. In conjunction with Hope Debt Advice Service, Crosspoint offers help for those struggling with these issues.
“You may have read this and thought ‘I am pleased that none of these issues apply to me.’ How about showing your thankfulness for your good fortune by making a donation to our food bank this Christmas? After all, this is the time for sharing goodwill.”
