A HALESOWEN building society is supporting homeless young people this Christmas as part of a charity partnership.

The Cornbow Shopping Centre-based branch of Yorkshire Building Society has teamed up with End Youth Homelessness (EYH) which provides practical help to homeless young people who are ready to move out of supported accommodation.

According to latest figures, 233 young people across Dudley borough received some homelessness support from the local authority last year, while an estimated 83,000 young people across the country are homeless.

People in Halesowen can help support EYH and spread a little festive cheer by buying a set of the charity’s Christmas tree decorations – for £1 per design – from the branch in Hagley Mall.

Josh Watchorn, manager of the Halesowen branch, said: “As Christmas is traditionally a time for giving, we want to give homeless young people the best gift of all, a home.

“Through our partnership with End Youth Homelessness we are providing help for young people in need, but this is only possible thanks to the support we receive from customers and the public in Halesowen.

“By buying a set of our Christmas decorations or making a donation, you will be helping homeless young people at one of the most difficult times of the year.”

EYH is a national movement to end homelessness among 16 to 25-year-olds in the UK.

Nick Connolly, managing director of EYH, said: “I would like to say a heartfelt thank you to all the customers and members of staff at Yorkshire Building Society who have contributed so far to our charity partnership.

“Through their donations and support we are able to help more homeless young people this Christmas.”