On Christmas Day for those who don't have family around them, it can be a lonely time. While most of the usual support services shut down, those who are facing homelessness or just struggling with the rising cost of living may appreciate a warm place to sit down with others and enjoy a hot meal.
The latest research from the Joseph Rowntree Foundation has revealed that 7.2 million people in the UK are going without the basics like food, clothing and toiletries and 4.7 million people are behind on bills. In a recent YouGov survey, one third of respondents said they would cut back on family gatherings this year due to growing concerns over finances.
Age UK has estimated that one in 20 pensioners in the UK will spend Christmas Day without speaking to anyone. But in Bristol there are a number of venues opening up their doors to those who may otherwise spend the day alone, are short of funds or fancy a day off from cooking and can't afford the Christmas meal pub prices.
