‘NO ONE GOES HUNGRY’ is the vital message behind the Switch Up Community Appeal, ensuring Nottinghamshire’s most vulnerable individuals and families get the helping hand they need during the harsh winter months.

Our communities continue to suffer with the challenges posed by the ongoing cost-of-living crisis. People who were just about surviving are now really struggling.

Our main goal this year is to collect cash donations. This will boost our efficiency and make the most of our limited resources by removing the need to gather and sort donations. We can instead get food sent directly to the doorsteps of those that need it most.

From 1 December to 31 January, Switch Up will be collecting financial contributions to send much-needed food deliveries to the families it supports across Nottingham. As well as those already on its database, it will be working with other city organisations to find and support those that fall between the gaps as they are not eligible for food banks but still need help.

For many Nottinghamshire households, this festive season will be particularly hard. The rising cost of living means it is a struggle for many to afford basic supplies and food, let alone celebrate with treats, gifts and a Christmas dinner.

New Year is also a difficult time for many, when the festive season is over but there is still a long winter ahead. Depression can set in during these darker months, which can lead down a path to self-harm, alcohol or drug abuse, and even suicide.

Switch Up is always evolving and looking at ways to enhance our support and ensure we reach the people who really need us. The additional barriers that people encounter cannot be underestimated either, whether that is age, language, or physical ability. We want to reach everyone, and we can only do that with the backing of our great city and county.

It only takes a few minutes to donate - less time than eating a mince pie! A food parcel for a family of four costs around £35 - and every donation counts.

Thank you.