Caring in Bristol launch Caring at Christmas project with animated short film

Caring in Bristol launch Caring at Christmas project with animated short film

Posted on: 03 Nov 2020

The Little City That Can is narrated by Bristolian actor Joe Sims.

 

Caring in Bristol have released a short film to launch their 2020 Caring at Christmas project, appealing for donations and volunteers to support their efforts to help people affected by homelessness this winter.

 

Narrated by Bristolian actor Joe Sims (Broadchurch, Casualty) and produced alongside Noods Radio, Rhombus Studio and illustrator Claire Shorrock, The Little City That Can explores how Bristol and Bristolians can come together this Christmas to provide for people in need.

 

A donation of just £21 could secure access for one person to Caring at Christmas, with shelter, support services, food and provisions available.

 

 

Amid the ongoing coronavirus crisis, charities and community groups have been flat out providing vital support for people affected by homelessness, financial trouble and addiction throughout this year.

 

Worsening weather conditions and a lack of resources make winter especially difficult for homeless people and rough sleepers, but this year's is expected to be the toughest yet as a growing number of people are impacted by the pandemic.

 

Caring at Christmas, run annually by Caring in Bristol, provides shelter, meals, support services, health checks and a vital sense of community for hundreds of people in Bristol over the festive period, made possible by the hard work of dedicated volunteers. 

 

Details on the 2019 Caring at Christmas project, which provided support for over 400 people between 23 December and 1 November, can be found here.

 

 

Speaking on the launch of Caring in Christmas 2020, Caring in Bristol Assistant Director, Lisa Spice, said: "It’s important to our clients, volunteers, supporters and the public that they know this project is safe and incredibly well managed. 

 

"We have a beneficiary and volunteer safety plan that relates to each tier of lockdown. A process for those that arrive with symptoms and strict site management procedures in place to make sure we keep everyone safe. 

 

"All of this taken seriously ensures the environment we provide will be safer than the streets. The responsibility for protecting our vulnerable clients is our highest priority, which is why it is imperative we continue being present for them throughout winter."

 

Highlighting the extra difficulties posed by the coronavirus crisis, Caring in Bristol Director, Ben Richardson, added: "This is the biggest challenge we’ve faced in 31 years running this project, but the people of Bristol don’t give up on the most vulnerable in our community, and neither do we. 

 

"People rough sleeping in Bristol deserve a Christmas away from the absolute hell of our cold empty streets. I’m proud of my city for helping us to do that. If there was ever a year our project was needed, it’s here and now.”

 

Caring in Bristol are actively looking for volunteers to work on a number of projects in Bristol this winter, ensuring they're able to reach and support as many people as possible.

 

Watch The Little City That Can and find out how you can get involved in the campaign via the Caring in Bristol website.

 

Alternatively, you can support the charity by making a one-off donation or setting up a regular payment here.

Read more:

 

Article by:

Matt Robson

 

Editor - 365Bristol.com & LOUD Magazine
 

Matt is a Journalism graduate and writer, passionate about supporting Bristol music, art and independent business. Get in touch via email at matt@365bristol.com.