Happy Summer! A time of warmer days, longer evenings, barbeques, picnics, trips out, time with friends & family, and maybe even a holiday.

For many, however, the summer can be really tough, adding extra financial burden to those already struggling to survive. Things like loneliness or a sense of missing out on life’s pleasures can add to existing mental health issues. With children home from school, additional meals are needed, new school uniforms, shoes, bags and books need to be bought, before even considering an ice-cream or special treat.

Last year, The Lighthouse helped hundreds of local people to make their summer a little brighter. We created special summer treats, experiences and outings. We also supported over 450 families with ‘Back to School’ packs filled with the essential basics like new shoes, underwear and stationery. Anything to relieve the burdens and lift heads up.

Numbers of referrals to The Lighthouse have increased dramatically over recent months as the cost of living bites and the mental health epidemic increases.

Could you help us this Summer to bring some S.U.N. into the lives of those who are really struggling? Supply, Unburden and Nurture.

• SUPPLY – Giving free nutritious food, including tasty summer treats. Providing hundreds of children with brand new school shoes, a school bag, a range of school essentials as well as quality preloved uniform.

• UNBURDEN – Delivering free money advice clinics with qualified debt advisors who help people relieve debt and learn to budget effectively.

• NURTURE – Cultivating mental & emotional resilience, life-skills, and connectedness through free workshops, support groups, community lunches and fun events.

We know that times are hard for everyone right now, so please don’t feel pressured to give, but if you’re able to support and want to help this summer, thank you.

May we take this opportunity to wish you a wonderful summer!

Erik and Bex - The Lighthouse founders.

£25 - could fund a one-to-one money advice session, providing skills and knowledge to help people become debt free.

£50 - could provide a child with a Back to School pack, with new shoes and the basics, relieving the stress from families over the holiday period.

£100 - could provide a free & nutritious cooked community lunch for fifty people (along with a special treat or two).