Christmas can be a difficult time for many of us but especially for young people who've spent all or some of their childhoods in care. Trying to live independently from the age of 18, with little or no family and small social networks, they don't have relations they can visit or close friends to spend time with. Often, the only Christmas present they get is from their social worker.

Now there's coronavirus. Job insecurity, money worries and reduced social contact are easier to manage when you've got the support of a loving family. Care leavers don't have that. It's often thought the loneliest in our society are older people, but a recent report showed it's those aged under 30. It's especially those without family.

With your help, we want to provide the most vulnerable of the 343 young care leavers currently in Barnet with a £25 Love2Shop gift card, to make this Christmas one to remember for the right reasons.

The card is redeemable at hundreds of retailers, so whether it's foodie treats, clothing or household essentials, we want to give these remarkably resilient young people the opportunity to choose something just for themselves that they would really enjoy. Thank you

NB) If the appeal exceeds its target we will use any excess funds to support young Barnet care leavers with services to help develop their skills, capacities and capabilities, to enable them to lead successful, independent and happy lives.