Hillingdon's children in need receive extra special gifts this year

Having grown up in single parent families, Intasam, Shreya, Lena and Hannah, all studying at Uxbridge College, were keen to help struggling families with Christmas presents for their children this festive season.  

Intasam said: "We have experienced for ourselves the difficulties that many families face over the Christmas period and know how hard it can be, particularly at a time when the cost of living is so high. We're a really supportive friendship group and three of us have been brought up by single mothers, with one of us growing up in care, so we wanted to do something different this year." 

The four students came up with a fundraising idea to complete a six-hour hike through the Peak District, which raised £496. Intasam said: "We arranged everything ourselves and covered the cost of the transport to complete the challenge. We're so proud of what we have achieved, and I hope we can bring some happiness to local families this Christmas." 

Hillingdon Council provided the girls with a wish list for the children, then they went Christmas shopping in Uxbridge and wrapped up the presents themselves. The council's dedicated Children's Services teams then distributed the gifts on their behalf to the children and families most in need. 

Hillingdon Council's Cabinet Member for Children, Families and Education, Cllr Susan O'Brien, said: "What a wonderful thing these young people have done to give back to the community, and this act of kindness really epitomises what true Christmas spirit is all about. 

"Our Children's Services teams work tirelessly to look after children in care all year round, and we are so proud of the achievements of our young people in the borough." 

There are many reasons why a family may require professional support from the council, including families struggling financially, parents needing support with children with additional needs, parents with mental health issues, and single parent families fleeing domestic abuse.  

For those children who are unable to stay at home with their parents, the council is looking for foster carers to provide love, care and a stable home. If you think you can make a difference, please visit www.hillingdon.gov.uk/fostering.