A Christian charity in Richmond is celebrating a milestone birthday, alongside all the hard work they have done to provide for vulnerable families over lockdown.

Riverbank Trust is marking 10 years of supporting single mothers and their children across the Borough of Richmond.

Based at Holy Trinity Church, the charity has links to three local schools, the hygiene bank and food bank.

The charity stepped up their efforts over lockdown, sending packs of food to families, as well as school supplies of pens and paper.

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Riverbank is known for its regular coffee mornings at Queen's Road Hostel, which give single mums who are struggling a chance to share the burden.

Offering tea, coffee, croissants, and comfort, the charity say they want every mother to feel “loved” and not “judged”.

Riverbank parent, Charlie D, said:

‘Riverbank is home to me. My daughter and my friends would meet in the hostel where Riverbank would be there with breakfast and set a lovely play group out for the babies even on days when no-one turned up they would still sit and wait in case anyone did.

“If you’re lonely and have nowhere to turn, they welcome you with open arms. If it’s a small chat you need or a text to say ‘hey’ they are never far away.

“Little Splashes is a dinner date for mums and kids. You feel like one big family. I would recommend Riverbank to anyone in need. If it wasn’t for Riverbank I would have found myself in some really difficult situations – so thank you.”

You can find out more about riverbank here.