For some of our most vulnerable residents in Kensington and Chelsea, such as those struggling with mental health issues like depression, isolation and loneliness, Christmas can be a very difficult time. 

We know from our research earlier this year that mental ill health is a real issue in the borough, with 1 in 12 residents currently diagnosed with depression, and that accessing the right support can be challenging.  We also have a very high level of single person households in K+C, with up to 47% of residents living alone.

 We want to ensure that nobody in our community feels isolated and alone this Winter.  The Kensington + Chelsea Foundation’s Winter Appeal supports projects which help bring people together to improve their mental and physical health, providing opportunities to connect, socialise and learn new skills.  

 By making a donation to the Winter Appeal, you could help residents to take part in a wide variety of projects which will reduce their loneliness, from ‘Tinkering Sessions’ at the Men’s Shed to baking bread at the Chelsea micro-bakery, or enjoying a three course, table-service lunch with access to mental health support in Earl’s Court. 

 These vital projects provide a lifeline for residents like Katie, who was struggling with her mental health having lost her job and become street homeless.  As Katie, said ‘Being busy, among people, was the best thing I could do for my isolation…I knew this was a place I want to be.  I could have a bad day and still come here and do something and have a win – achieving my own social goals as part of my recovery’.

 This Christmas, please help us to reach more residents like Katie and reduce their isolation, by donating to The Kensington + Chelsea Foundation’s Winter Appeal.