A CHARITY has teamed up with a shopping centre to give back to the community by offering free meals to the vulnerable throughout December.

Age UK and the Cornmill Shopping Centre in Darlington are supporting the town’s older residents hoping to promote friendship among the community.

They are providing hearty lunches in ‘One Hot Meal’ events working alongside organisations in the community to deliver the service.

The project has enlisted the help of Darlington College catering students and members of the police community support officer team to make the events possible.

Some of the volunteers helping deliver a 'hot meal'

Susan Young the shopping centre’s manager said: “Christmas is always a tough time of year for anybody who might be suffering with encountering feelings of loneliness. We want to offer our support with Age UK to anyone who will benefit from a hot meal in a caring setting.”

Workers from the shopping centre and volunteers from Age UK North Yorkshire and Darlington will be on hand to provide information on support services available for anyone who may be feeling the effects of loneliness or isolation.

The joint operation is hoping to give over 120 people a hot meal this winter, following fundraising efforts by the shopping centre which raised £700 earlier this year through various activities and contributions.

A Darlington resident enjoying a fun lunch

Simon Davidson, chief executive of the Age UK branch said: “The winter period presents a significant challenge for many older people and as an organisation we provide a range of winter support services including free energy saving and benefit cheques.

“We can’t thank the Cornmill enough for its generous contribution towards our winter hot meals for older and vulnerable people in Darlington.”

The charity regularly brings the older community together in a space where they can learn new skills in a relaxed setting and make lifelong friends to combat loneliness.

For more information and dates of the ‘One Hot Meal’ events call the Cornmill Shopping Centre on 01325-362367.