Christmas comes early at National Star

Christmas came early for National Star this year, when staff from GFirst LEP and GFutures put down their laptops and picked up their shears to spend the day tending the charity’s Christmas trees.

Selling Christmas trees is just one additional income stream for National Star, who rely on support from the local community to ensure people with disabilities have access to the best learning tools, training programmes, equipment, technology and opportunities.

In addition, the two companies have named National Star as their charity partner for the year, and will focus on a number of fundraising activities to support the work of the charity.

David Owen, Chief Executive of GFirst LEP, said: “We’re delighted to be working with National Star. The personalised and world-class learning on offer is truly inspirational, enabling people with disabilities to realise their potential as equal and active citizens in control of their lives. Raising awareness of such an important local charity is important to the whole team, and we’re looking forward to working with National Star over the next year.”

Holly Cook, Area Fundraiser at National Star, added: “The support of GFirst LEP and GFutures has been invaluable. Tending to the Christmas trees isn’t necessarily traditional support for a charity, but helps with a key income stream for the organisation. The backing of local businesses is essential to National Star - together we can achieve so much more. We’re looking forward to working with the team again soon.”

National Star not only offers an Ofstead ‘outstanding’ college based in Gloucestershire, but a wide range of services that include long-term accommodation, respite, work-based learning programmes and professional training. They work with employers, local authorities, general further education colleges, housing associations and other specialist providers.

National Star has a vision for a world in which people with disabilities are able to live their lives independently and to the full. The charity are passionate about working in partnership with organisations and individuals who can help them make this vision a reality.