As East Hampshire District Council chairman, I am privileged to meet residents from all walks of life and have the honour of attending events and representing the council across the district.

What always impresses me is that so many people I have pleasure to speak to are volunteers, charity workers or otherwise engaged in the public sector.

They have dedicated their lives to helping those less fortunate than themselves.

It’s true that East Hampshire is relatively prosperous, but there are still pockets of deprivation.

And there are many local people who need support.

At Christmas, the struggles people are experiencing with the rising cost of living will bite even harder.

The freezing weather of the past week or two will have seen many people make very difficult choices as they manage their finances to keep warm and well fed.

Add to this the pressure to provide loved ones and children with Christmas toys, turkey and trimmings. It will all cost more this year.

But if you are struggling there is no need to suffer in silence.

There is a huge number of charities and community groups out there, offering a vast amount of support for those who need it.

Warm spaces, food banks, Citizens Advice and so many other organisations are all ready to help you.

And all staffed by wonderful, selfless people of East Hampshire who have decided it is important to help others before themselves.

So if you’re finding things difficult, don’t worry – get in touch with East Hampshire District Council and we can tell you all about the help that’s out there for you.

And for those, like me, who are lucky enough to have what we need this year, perhaps we can remember that this is a time of giving and sharing.

And hopefully donate a little more to the charities that work so hard for us all this Christmas.