Liverpool residents are being encouraged to show their famous generosity this festive season by helping ensure some of the city’s most vulnerable young people have a gift to open on Christmas Day.

Liverpool City Council has launched its annual Christmas Gift Appeal, inviting both the public and council staff to donate presents for young people preparing to leave the care system.

The campaign plays an important role in making sure care leavers aged 18–25 receive at least one meaningful gift over the holidays. These young adults have previously been supported by the local authority and are now taking their first steps into independent living. With little or no family around them, Christmas can be a particularly isolating time, and the appeal helps bring a sense of comfort, kindness and connection during the festive period.

This year’s donations will once again be collected through an Amazon Wish List, making it quick and easy for anyone to contribute. Items start from just £3, and every gift purchased will be wrapped and delivered by council staff in time for Christmas. You can view the wish list here.

The deadline for donations is Monday 8 December, and every contribution, no matter how small, will help brighten the season for a young person starting out on their own.

Councillor Liz Parsons, Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, said: 

“Due to their childhood experiences, often Care Leavers have limited contact with their family or do not have biological family members who are able to buy them gifts and Christmas time can be a lonely time for some. 

“Please help us to share some Christmas spirit by enabling all our Care Leavers to receive a gift at Christmas this year.

“It’s easy to donate. Just click on the item in the Amazon wish list that you wish to donate and don’t forget to select the gift registry address Rachael Burke, Care Leavers team.”

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