A local community group are doing their bit to help people who may be struggling with homelessness.

Cumbria Community Foundation, which is based in Cockermouth, are taking part in a news project to provide essentials to those in need; particularly younger, more vulnerable, people.

The project is named Hug in a Bag and was set up to provide essentials to young people who recently became homeless.

A spokesperson from the Foundation said: "For many homeless young people, sofa surfing is the only way of keeping a roof over there heads, staying with different friends for days or weeks at a time, while they seek support and work out there next move."

The Hug in a Bag project was initially started by Period Poverty North Cumbria with the intention of coming to the aid of vulnerable youths who are struggling with homelessness.

They explained that the project received funding from the COVID-19 Response Fund of around £1000.

Everyday supplies were included in the bag such as hygiene items and bedding packs.

There has been a large increase in people seeking support for homelessness since lockdown began the Foundation report.

Ann Ford, a developer of the project said: "A lot of people who turn up homeless are very vulnerable, and they don’t have anything.

"Often these young people will prioritise food over hygiene. The Hug in a Bag project gives them these little comforts."

Visit their social media for more details.