M&S Hartlepool

Fibro-Connect TS is a Teesside-based charity supporting people living with fibromyalgia, chronic pain conditions, poor mental health, social isolation and financial hardship. We are based mainly from our charity shop and warm hub on York Road in Hartlepool, while also running support groups and sessions across Stockton and Redcar. Our charity shop is more than just a shop. It is a safe and welcoming space where people can come for support, friendship and understanding. Many of the people we help are unable to work due to long-term illness and chronic pain, so we try to ease some of the pressure by providing low-cost essentials, food donations when available, wellbeing activities and emotional support. We offer free support groups, one-to-one sessions, creative activities such as diamond art and rock painting, and annual trips to places like Whitby and Scarborough to help reduce isolation and improve wellbeing. People find us through word of mouth, social media, healthcare professionals, local organisations and community referrals. All of our services are completely free as we never want finances to prevent someone accessing support. We rely heavily on donations, grants, local sponsors and our amazing volunteers to continue supporting the community. We are mainly seeking food surplus support through Neighbourly as we have seen a growing number of people needing help with food and essentials due to the cost of living crisis. Access to regular food donations would make a huge difference to vulnerable individuals and families using our services. We would also appreciate guidance towards suitable grants and funding opportunities to help us continue our work. We work closely with local councils, community organisations and local businesses, including Lab Gym Hartlepool where we are currently trying to secure funding opportunities for gentle exercise and wellbeing support for people living with fibromyalgia. Our work has been featured in Hartlepool Life and we have photographs available showing our support groups, volunteers, community activities and outreach work. Food donations would always be distributed free of charge through our warm hub, support sessions and charity shop to vulnerable members of the local community.

The Wharton Trust Community Centre is a local community hub based in Dyke House, providing a safe, welcoming and inclusive space for residents of all ages. We support people facing a range of challenges including food insecurity, isolation, financial hardship, unemployment, and wellbeing needs. Our work focuses on reducing poverty, improving community wellbeing, and strengthening local connections. We deliver a wide range of services including community activities, warm space provision, food support, signposting to welfare benefit advice, and opportunities for social engagement. We also work closely with volunteers who play a vital role in delivering activities, maintaining the centre, supporting events, and helping with community initiatives such as environmental clean-ups and local improvement projects. We are seeking support such as surplus food donations, volunteer assistance, and funding opportunities. This support helps us continue providing essential services, ensuring the centre remains a welcoming place where local people can access help, connect with others, and improve their circumstances.

We operate a children's role-play center tailored for ages 0-8, with a commitment to supporting families facing financial constraints. Many families struggle to afford outings to play centers due to financial limitations. Traditional play centers often come with hefty admission fees, and once inside, children often request additional treats and snacks, further burdening families financially. At our center, we aim to alleviate this strain by offering affordable entry fees and reasonably priced refreshments. Additionally, we host special sessions where children can enjoy complimentary meals, ensuring that every child can participate regardless of their family's financial situation. Our goal is to create a welcoming and inclusive environment where all children can engage in imaginative play without financial barriers.