Insurance brokers launch collection to support families during school holidays
Insurance broker Howden Solihull has launched a collection bank for breakfast and toiletry items, aiming to help combat child poverty.
The team are working with the Coleridge Trust, a community development trust that operates in Solihull and surrounding communities, focusing on tackling the effects of deprivation, empower more people into work and training, and improving the life chances of local people.
Much of their efforts have focused on North Solihull, where neighbourhoods are ranked amongst the most deprived five to 10 per cent in England.
Collette Eccleston, senior insurance consultant at Howden Solihull, said: “We were really struck by the holistic approach the Colebridge Trust takes. They go beyond providing food parcels – they run cooking classes, offer employability support and help families get back on their feet.
“It’s real, long-term help, not just a sticking plaster over the issue.
“We’re proud to be part of something that makes a meaningful difference, and we know how supportive our local community is! We’re asking for Solihullians to help, by donating breakfast items like cereal, croissants and toiletries like shower gel and toothpaste to our ‘Eats and Treats’ collection.
“Our team will then take the donations to the Colebridge Trust each week, as part of their summer breakfast club.”
With 31 per cent of children in the UK living in poverty, the rising cost of living continues to put pressure on families.
Recent reports show that child poverty in the UK has risen by almost 20 per cent from 2021 to 2024, increasing faster than in any other high-income country included in the study.
The pressure can be much worse during the summer holidays, as families cannot rely on school lunches each day.
Becci Fox, projects and partnerships manager, said: “Colebridge Trust are so grateful to be able to partner with Howden Solihull this summer to be able to offer a different type of breakfast club this summer to our families and the wider community.
“The ongoing support from Howden Solihull creates a lasting impact, making a real difference in people's lives. We truly are thankful.”
The Howden Solihull team are accepting donations at the Poplar Road branch throughout summer until 11 August.
Families in need can book a place at the breakfast club, which will be at the Evergreen Family Hub, 42 Kingshurst Way, by calling 0121 779 1724 or emailing evergreen@colebridge.org.
Pictured: Becci Fox (left) and Collette Eccleston (right)
