DWP: Mum didn't tell little boy it was his birthday after Universal Credit left her with no money1/2/2020
Based in Peterlee, the East Durham Trust is supporting families facing hardship in the once proud mining community A mum didn't tell her little boy it was his birthday after Universal Credit left her with no money.
It is just one of the heartbreaking stories heard by staff at the East Durham Trust in Peterlee that offers a frontline service to those struggling on the controversial benefit. Once a thriving coal mining community, the villages were built around the industry but when the pits closed thousands of people were left unemployed. Now, East Durham is one of the most deprived areas in the UK and has felt the full force of Universal Credit since the roll out started two years ago. You can read the full article here A Charity has benefited from the support of the area's Sikh Community in its fight against poverty. East Durham Trust welcomed representatives of the Sikh Temple to a special event in Peterlee aimed at raising cultural awareness and celebrating diversity.
The event saw staff, volunteers and beneficiaries of the Trust's services enjoy food prepared by members of the Gurdwara, in Thornaby, and youngsters from the temple gave a talk on Sikhism covering issues such as customs , traditions and festivals. The assembled guests, which numbered around 30, were also given talks by Easington's MP Grahame Morris and the Police. The Trust's Chief Executive Malcolm Fallow said: "It was great to see so many people attend. We have a commitment to breaking down barriers and bringing people together from different backgrounds and cultures in a spirit of friendliness and cooperation." GP Dr Kamal Sidhu, who helped organise the vent, said: "It was a great opportunity to showcase diversity, especially at these challenging times of increasing diverseness within society." East Durham Trust provides a range of services for vulnerable people with many facing disadvantage and poverty. Its services include a food bank and providing advice on welfare, benefits and pathways out of debt. |
LocationEast Durham Trust
Community House Yoden Road Peterlee SR8 5DP T: 0191 5693511 Charity No: 1117642 Company No: 05934124 |
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