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21

Dec

Last Updated: 19/12/2025
Harrogate
Harrogate

Stray Ferret Christmas Appeal: Stories of joy, belonging and purpose

by Katie Oxtoby

| 21 Dec, 2025
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new-stray-ferret-henshaws-christmas-appeal-14

Raworths is proud to support the Stray Ferret Christmas Appeal 2025 for the fantastic work of Henshaws. All money raised goes directly to this charity.

Christmas is a time for stories of joy and hope – like the ones we've been telling throughout this year's Stray Ferret Christmas Appeal. We've been sharing how people with disabilities and their families have had their lives transformed through something seemingly so simple: creativity.

The people in our stories all attend Henshaws Arts and Crafts Centre, and it is for this – one of Knaresborough's greatest assets – that our Christmas Appeal is raising money. 

We chose to support the centre because the work they do is vital to disabled people in our area – but they don't have enough space and people are on the waiting list desperate to join. 

So we are aiming to raise £5,000 to help the charity build two brand new creative workshops.

Thank you to everyone who has donated so far – it is very much appreciated. But we still have a long way to go, and would be so grateful if you would donate whetever you can. Thank you.

PLEASE DONATE TO OUR APPEAL

Stories of inspiration

jenna-henshaws-art-maker

Jenna.

We've heard from Jenna, who has discovered her artistic talent and a particular passion for printing. But more than that, creative workshops at Henshaws have helped her grow so much in confidence that she now delivers art sessions to the public.

Olivia, meanwhile, not only loves trying out all the different arts and crafts on offer at the centre, but has found a community where she feels welcome and valued. Whatever creative session she is taking part in, she loves nothing more that chatting and laughing with her fellow Artmakers and staff.

And for Cameron, Henshaws has provided structure, purpose and a sense of achievement. The centre also offers a supportive, welcoming environment for hanging out with his friends, just like any other young adult.

Please donate to our Christmas Appeal and help more people like Jenna, Olivia and Cameron shine through creativity.

DONATE HERE

StarThe Stray Ferret Christmas Appeal 2025: Give the gift of creativity this ChristmasStarThe Stray Ferret Christmas Appeal 2025: 'A community full of life and joy'