How the Chesterton House Foundation is Supporting Helping Hands

At the Chesterton House Foundation, we believe that everyone should have access to the right support when life feels overwhelming. That’s why we’re proud to be backing Helping Hands Community Trust, a South Wigston-based charity that has been serving the community for over 25 years.

Run by a board of dedicated volunteer trustees and supported by a team of staff and volunteers, Helping Hands specialises in supporting the most vulnerable people in society – those facing complex, multi-faceted issues who may otherwise struggle to engage with mainstream services.

A Safe Place for Advice and Support

Helping Hands is known for its welcoming, non-judgemental approach, offering free, independent advice to tackle the root causes of poverty, deprivation, and isolation. The team works with individuals on a wide range of issues, including welfare benefits, money management, housing, advocacy, family law, employment, training, mental health, and support for victims of domestic abuse and ex-offenders.

Services are delivered both through their ‘One Stop Advice Centre’ in South Wigston, open three mornings a week, and through advice surgeries in Oadby and Wigston. Each appointment is personal and face-to-face, ensuring people get the time and care they need. All services are audited and accredited by the Advice Quality Standard (AQS), recognising their excellence and reliability.

Enhancing Outreach with Our Grant

Thanks to a grant of £875 from the Foundation, Helping Hands is able to strengthen its outreach programme – taking trusted advisors directly into community spaces such as GP surgeries, warm hubs, senior citizen groups, food banks, and community pantries. This proactive approach removes barriers for people who might feel daunted by formal advice centres, ensuring they can access vital help in safe, familiar settings.

Our funding is helping provide new pull-up banners and professional materials to raise awareness of Helping Hands’ services wherever their team goes. With clearer visibility, more people in need will know that free support is available. Last year alone, the charity supported 2,200 individuals (up from 1,650 the year before), and with this enhanced outreach they aim to reach even more.

Creating Lasting Impact

By improving visibility in local hubs, Helping Hands not only connects with more clients but also strengthens relationships with partner organisations such as GP practices and food banks. This builds a stronger network of support across the community. The team will monitor outcomes and feedback, ensuring the difference this initiative makes is captured and shared.

We’re delighted to support Helping Hands Community Trust in their mission and look forward to seeing the positive impact of their expanded outreach.

Help Us Do More

Through the Chesterton House Foundation, we’re proud to support charities like Helping Hands that provide essential services to our community. If you’d like to contribute and help us extend this impact even further, please consider making a donation today.

Helping Hands welcome volunteers to help them deliver their work. If you’re interested in getting involved, visit their website for more information.