Oakdale-based charity wins High Sheriff award

A charity that helps some of the most vulnerable people in Caerphilly has been recognised in this year’s High Sheriff of Gwent Awards.

Helping Caring Team (HCT) won the High Sheriff’s award for outstanding contribution to improving the lives of people in Gwent.

Set up in 2019, HCT provides support and advocacy to homeless and vulnerable people across Caerphilly, Newport, Torfaen and Blaenau Gwent.

Founder and chair, Hayley Thomas, 45, from Oakdale, set up HCT after witnessing a rise in the number of homeless people in Newport over Christmas 2018.

Ms Thomas told Caerphilly Observer: “It is great to have been recognised by this award and it shows how far we have come in the last two years.

“Two years ago I just couldn’t face buying gifts for Christmas while people were desperate on the streets.

“After Christmas, I started collecting pot noodles and distributing them on the streets and it has built up from there.

“Now we are supported by businesses, churches and supermarkets and we are able to help people who need it most.

“Our aim is to show people another life is possible. It is about building people up, helping them be independent and helping them progress and move on.”

HCT provides a range of services to vulnerable people across Gwent, including homeless food runs, advocacy, and support with benefit claims.

Originally operating in Caerphilly and Newport, the charity has extended its services to Torfaen and Blaenau Gwent during the coronavirus pandemic.

Ms Thomas added: “I think a lot of people have had a big shock this year, they realise that actually, it is all too easy to fall into desperation.

“People now realise what ‘eat or heat’ means and that you do not ask for help unless you really need it.

“We have been able to help 82 families with Christmas packages, and we haven’t turned a single family down.

“The community and the public have really come together to help and support us, we have all learnt a lot.

“Our plan moving forward is to extend this to be a friendship group, where those who have received help can give back and provide support for others.”

High Sheriff of Gwent, Tim Russen, said: “Helping Caring Team do so much to support homeless and vulnerable families.

“Spare a thought for those they are helping and do what you can to support them.”