At Christmas, much of what makes us feel safe can sit quietly in the background. Perhaps itsomeone asking when we'll arrive. A familiar place at the table. Or even someone to call when the practical business of life gets a bit difficult.
For young people leaving care, those sources of reassurance can often look very different. Starting out on an independent life might mean managing a home, money and unfamiliar responsibilities without the family support that others take for granted. A season so insistently organised around togetherness can really sharpen that difference.
In Kirklees, our chums at Northorpe Hall Child + Family Trust are asking the community to help offer some practical comfort - and a reminder that young people starting out on their own do matter to the people around them.
The Mirfield charity has launched its annual Holiday Hampers Appeal, aiming to provide two gift boxes for every young person who has left care in Kirklees during 2026. One will contain everyday essentials and small comforts; the other, festive treats.
Now in its eleventh year, the appeal is working with Kirklees Council’s care leavers service for the second year running. Last year, community donations enabled the charity to provide two boxes for every young person it was supporting.
This year’s effort will also involve a local school and Northorpe Hall’s CREATE Youth group, whose members will help pack the hampers. It gives young people a direct role in supporting others beginning a new chapter nearby.
Chris Rowe, Chief Executive of Northorpe Hall Child + Family Trust, said:
“Every young person deserves to know that someone is thinking of them, particularly at a time of year when so much attention is given to family and togetherness. For young people leaving care, that support network can look very different, and we want to play our part in making sure they feel valued by their local community.
“Our Holiday Hamper Appeal brings people together to do something practical and thoughtful for young people starting out on their own. We're grateful to everyone who donates, because every contribution helps us show these young people that their community cares.”
There's something thoughtful about the two-box approach. Shower gel, warm socks and hand cream recognise the everyday needs of someone building a home. Chocolate, a winter mug and something good to eat make room for pleasure, too.
A hamper can't supply all the security, relationships and continuing support a young person might need. But choosing and packing one is a tangible act of attention. It says that independence doesn't mean being overlooked.
Northorpe Hall has supported children, young people and families in West Yorkshire for more than 60 years. Its work includes specialist support for neurodivergent young people and their families, alongside mentoring, therapies and tailored programmes for young people up to the age of 25.
The Christmas appeal offers a straightforward way for neighbours, workplaces and community groups to contribute to that wider culture of care.
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How to help
Donations are being collected for both boxes:
Items can be dropped off at reception at Northorpe Hall, 53 Northorpe Lane, Mirfield, WF14 0QL, during opening hours, until Wednesday 18 November 2026.
Supporters who can't visit can choose items from the charity’s Amazon Wishlist and have them delivered directly to Northorpe Hall.
Further information about the charity is available HERE
