Congleton NSPCC Christmas Toy Appeal

Christmas is fast approaching, and once again Plus Dane Housing, Congleton Chronicle, Congleton Town Council and members of the local branch of the NSPCC are working together to run the successful annual NSPCC toy appeal, which delivers gifts to local children most in need.

From Monday 14th November until Friday 16th December it is hoped that local people will once again dig deep and donate a new toy or suitable gift for a child or teenager. Toys can be dropped of at:

•             Congleton Town Hall Information Centre

•             Congleton Chronicle Office in Market Square

•             Boots Barn Road

•             Plus Dane Offices in Worral Street (Thursday 10am – 2pm)

The toys are sorted and age/sex-appropriate toys and gifts are given to the parents and carers of those children identified as in need of support. It is important that the person knows what they are giving, so please do not wrap the gift.

This year it is expected that the demand will be greater than ever as more people struggle to meet the basic costs, so if you are able to help please do. As well as toys for all ages, the NSPCC stressed the need for educational toys, games, stationery and treats aimed at young teenagers.

The appeal will also welcome donations of cash, 100% of which will be given to support the National Childline. Donations of cash can be dropped into the Chronicle Reception or Congleton Information Centre marked NSPCC.

There are many children for whom Christmas is not magical, but a nightmare: over Christmas, a child rings, texts or emails Childline nearly every two minutes. Some had been left alone by their parents; others in care or suffering the aftermath of a family breakdown waited in vain for the visit promised by one or other parent; some were caught up in domestic violence often caused by alcohol or drugs; some suffered sexual abuse; and a growing number were being bullied, with no way of escape. This is the busiest time for Childline.

A spokesperson for the charity locally said: “It is a frightening statistic that last year, more than 7,000 children in distress phoned Childline over Christmas and New Year, and sadly there were 600 calls we did not have either the capacity nor manpower to answer.

“Each call costs the NSPCC £4, which would be more if we did not have such a wonderful band of very highly trained volunteers.“

All toys collected go to local children. As in previous years, the appeal can only accept new toys. The collection is open from 14th November until 16th December.