(Image: Supplied)
A North East charity is asking for donations to provide Christmas meals, company and a warm welcome for people experiencing homelessness.
Changing Lives is asking residents to donate £5 for a hot meal, a seat at the table and company during the lonely Christmas period.
The campaign includes a special meal at Newcastle Cathedral on December 22 for people experiencing homelessness, including rough sleepers.
Changing Lives seeks £5 donations for a Christmas meal at Newcastle Cathedral, supporting homeless people across the North East (Image: Supplied)
The cathedral and Café 16, run by The Oswin Project, are organising the event to bring people together for food and conversation before Christmas.
Stephen Bell OBE, chief executive of Changing Lives, said: "An empty seat at Christmas can mean someone we love is no longer with us.
"It can also remind us of someone who is still here but has become separated from family, friends and the community around them.
"These figures are about people.
"People with relationships, memories and hopes for the future.
"The loss of 40 people experiencing homelessness in our region is a reminder of why this work matters, while the rise in rough sleeping shows how much support is needed."
Office for National Statistics data estimates that 40 people experiencing homelessness died in the North East in 2025.
Government figures also show rough sleeping has risen sharply across the region.
In autumn 2025, an estimated 162 people were sleeping rough on one night—up from 124 the previous year, a 31 per cent rise and the highest increase in England.
In Newcastle, the number more than doubled from 21 to 46—a 119 per cent rise.
Mr Bell said a Christmas meal cannot solve homelessness but can make a huge difference.
He said: "A Christmas meal cannot resolve the challenges of homelessness.
"But being welcomed, sharing a hot dinner and having someone to talk to can matter enormously.
"We want people to know they are part of our community and that they have not been forgotten.
"We’re grateful to Newcastle Cathedral and The Oswin Project for helping us bring people together this Christmas."
The charity aims to raise £200,000 through its wider Christmas appeal.
Money raised beyond the meal costs will fund Changing Lives’ year-round practical and long-term support for people facing homelessness and other difficulties.
Businesses, schools, community groups and individuals can help by donating or organising Christmas jumper days, fundraisers or sponsorship events.
Read more
Darlington charity warns ‘poverty fatigue’ is causing funding shortfall
'A brilliant opportunity' as Raby Castle welcomes the 2027 BUSINESSiQ Awards
Geordie duo launch venture to boost North East visitor economy
Changing Lives said every £5 donation will help someone avoid being alone this Christmas and share a meal with others.
The event will also remember people who died while experiencing homelessness.
Donate or find out more about the Christmas appeal at www.changing-lives.org.uk/christmas-meal-appeal.