Gallery

We’re proud of the work we do. Since we were founded in 2008, we’ve helped many thousands of people in the Sunderland area. Here is just a taste of some of the activities we’ve offered to Carers and others – along with photos of special anniversaries and our Open Days.

Recipe in a Bag

During the pandemic, we helped Carers’ families to have healthy and tasty meals. We delivered recipes created by Social Chef with the necessary ingredients. Photos of the mouth-watering results were posted on our Carers Connect Facebook page, along with enthusiastic feedback.

Creative Carers

From crochet to pottery, sewing and card-making to growing herbs, our Carers Connect members have developed new skills and interests and produced beautiful items. These weekly classes have provided a valuable way to relax as well as discovering hidden talents.

We have also run very popular classes in wreath-making in the run up to Christmas.

Singing

Our HOPS choir, with tutor Lindsay Hannon, brought people together across Sunderland, singing at local festivals and charity Christmas fairs. The choir has now become the Roker Community Choir.

Singing For Fun is a weekly group with a focus on fun and friendship. The classes help people build confidence through learning songs and enjoying music together.

Highlights From Our Photo Album

Recipe Boxes

During the pandemic, HOPS provided Social Chef’s tasty recipe ingredients and delivered them to Carers’ doorsteps.

Christmas Wreaths

HOPS’ Christmas wreath-making class were a firm favourite in Hendon, Roker and Houghton Le Spring.

Let’s Talk

Lynda Harkus (centre) celebrates Sunderland City Council’s 2019 Let’s Talk resident engagement campaign.

HOPS Choir

The HOPS Choir, led by Lindsay Hannon, in full voice for our 10th Birthday celebration in 2018.

HOPS Open Day

Open Day

HOPS Founder Lesley Barefoot (right) with Trustee and volunteer Marie Rain at a HOPS Open Day.

HOPS 5th Anniversary

HOPS Chair Tom Cranston with Sunderland’s mayor and mayoress, Robert and Juliana Heron, on HOPS’ fifth anniversary in 2013.

Your donations, no matter how big or small, are deeply appreciated. Your kindness helps us continue our work, day after day.