Business centres team up to support children's charity

Cotton Court Business Centre in Preston and the Landmark in Burnley are working together to help support disadvantaged young people across the county.

In past years, Barnardo's has asked for donations of Christmas presents to pass onto the young people in its care. But with coronavirus restrictions in place, this won't be able to take place as normal.

The two business centres are instead asking local companies and members of the public to make an online financial donation so that Barnardo's Lancashire Services staff can purchase gifts in time for Christmas.

The target for this year is to be able to buy gifts for the 350 young people that Barnardo’s support across Lancashire.

Robert Binns, Cotton Court managing director, said: "2020 has been a tough year for a lot of people, but for children and young people that are vulnerable, life is now even harder.

"This year, more than ever, we’d really like everyone to come together to show that we care. Every year we are blown away by the support and generosity that the community show towards the appeal. The number of people that get involved is always astounding and we hope that this year will be no exception!"

Liz Wilkinson, general manager of The Landmark, added: "Sadly, we know that this will be a really tough Christmas for many local families as many have suffered job losses and reduced income due to the impact of the Coronavirus pandemic. By donating this year you can help us to remind families facing a tough winter that their community cares."

Debbie Nolan Plunkett, Barnardo’s assistant director of children’s services, said: "We work with over 350 children in Lancashire including children with disabilities, children in care, care leavers and young carers and it is such a blessing to have Cotton Court and this year The Landmark leading the appeal to ensure that no child or young person known to us go without a present this Christmas.

"Covid-19 has caused so much anxiety and stress for children, young people and families and making this Christmas count feel more important than any year previously. We really are grateful to all businesses and individuals who contribute to make a real difference in a child’s life."

The appeal will run until December 14 and donations can be made here.