While many of us look forward to good food and quality time with friends and family, Christmas can be a challenge for some.

For those who struggle financially, Christmas shopping for food and presents may be difficult and for others who are alone or may not have friends or family nearby, Christmas can be a lonely time.

So, what is going on in in and around Teddington to help those who may be alone, homeless, or struggling this Christmas? 

Churches Together, Teddington

The Elleray Centre is located on North Lane, Teddington TW11 0HJ (Credit: Elleray Community Association)

Each year Churches Together in Teddington organises a Christmas Day Lunch for those who would otherwise eat alone on Christmas Day from 10.45am – 3.30pm. The lunch will be held at the new Elleray Centre in Teddington.

There will be entertainment, mince pies and other refreshments as well as a chance to join in carols and other activities.

Transport can be provided for those who need it. Booking is required.

You can book either by calling 0208 977 7733 or emailing [email protected].

Never Alone at Christmas

The Hampton Inspired Hub is located in 3 Ashley Rd, Hampton TW12 2JA (Credit: Hampton Inspired Hub)

Never Alone at Christmas is a free event hosted at Hampton Inspired Hub for families who will struggle financially/socially over Christmas.

Attendees will leave with plenty of goodies having had a hot meal and some fun. Father Christmas will be there and there will be live music too.

The event will run from 10am – 3pm on Christmas day (Thursday, 25 December).

Spaces are limited so booking is required.

You can book by calling Susan Green on 07713 405049 or emailing [email protected].

Christmas Day Lunch at Sidra

Sidra's Twickenham restaurant is located in 8 York St, Twickenham TW1 3LD (Image via Google Maps)

Sidra Restaurant in Twickenham is offering a free Christmas Day lunch to individuals who would otherwise be isolated or alone on Christmas. This is happening at the Twickenham restaurant only.

There are limited spaces and you must book in advance to attend.

You can book by calling the Twickenham restaurant on 020 8241 0062 or visiting its website here.

United Response Christmas Day Quiz

United Response, which supports disabled people across Richmond and Kingston, is hosting its annual Christmas Day quiz online from 12pm – 1.30 pm.

It will be held on Microsoft Teams (online). To access the link, call Matthew on 07917 492436 or email him at [email protected].

Richmond Soup Kitchen

Richmond Soup Kitchen is open from 5pm - 6pm on Christmas Day (Credit: Richmond Soup Kitchen)

Richmond Soup Kitchen, which is located on St John the Divine, Kew Rd, Richmond, will be offering free hot food from 5pm – 6pm on Christmas Day.