Local charity ask people to give the gift of hope this Christmas

Willows Counselling are asking people to donate £5 or more to fund a star on their Christmas tree.

By donating a star on the Christmas tree, you would be helping to fund some counselling sessions for someone who would not be able to access this support otherwise. 

Christmas is not always an easy time of year. Issues such as loneliness, depression, loss and anxiety can be felt more deeply against the backdrop of festive celebrations.  Willows often sees an increase in referrals during December and January and want to be able to offer support and hope for clients during this period.

Willows provides an affordable service for those where finances are limited. Their team of highly qualified counsellors offer one to one counselling sessions for people facing mental health difficulties, with a specialism in counselling for trauma and abuse with its complex challenges. In an average week, Willows conducts around 60 counselling sessions, 85% of which are subsidised to some degree. This Christmas campaign is being organised so that people in the local community, needing expert therapeutic support, are not deprived of access, or disadvantaged, due to financial constraints.

Denise Brent, Co-CEO, Willows said: “Christmas can be a difficult time for lots of us. Whilst many families enjoy the joys of festive cheer and celebration, others are faced with the reality of loss, bereavement, and isolation. It is also a time where a great number of people become overloaded with the burden of financial pressures.

“Giving a gift to Willows this Christmas will support people facing the emotional challenges of bereavement, depression, loss, abuse, and depression. If you are able, please do join us in supporting others this festive period.”

Every donation makes a difference. £15 funds a new client assessment and £25 funds one counselling session!

Donations can be made through their Just Giving event page https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/givethegiftofwellbeing