Charity appeals for old and foreign currency

An appeal has been launched for donations of old and foreign currency to benefit a charity that helps families with young children.

Homestart Newark is appealing for people to dig out any unwanted coins and notes.

They can be dropped off at the charity’s offices on Barnbygate or at the Newark branches of NatWest Bank and Barclays Bank.

The charity’s fundraiser, Kim Shirley, said many people brought back coins and notes from their holidays with the intention of using them again the following the year.

“But do you really remember where you put them or remember to take them with you on your next holiday?” she said.

“Please help us to continue to support local families.”

'Challenging times'

Once converted £5 will pay for a volunteer home visit to a family; £10 will provide initial support to a family by a trained organiser; and £20 will train new volunteers on the Homestart preparation course.

Senior organiser Mrs Elaine Rossall said she hoped everyone would clear out their old coins and notes so the charity could continue its work.

“Reductions in statutory funding are having a major effect and we need to look for further local support to help us sustain the scheme,” she said.

“The local voluntary sector is a precious asset in these challenging times and we need help to protect it so we can continue to support parents and children through their challenging times.”