MP Urges Those in the Westcountry to Help Save Families From a Bleak Christmas

3.43.23pm GMT Tue 21st Nov 2006

Falmouth and Camborne MP Julia Goldsworthy is encouraging local businesses and individuals to contribute to the Farepak Response Fund in an effort to help those affected by the collapse of the Christmas savings club. Ms Goldsworthy has already donated a day's wages.

Christmas was effectively ruined this year for dozens of families in the Falmouth and Camborne area who saved with the scheme. Ms Goldsworthy has contributed to the cause in the hope that the money raised will go some way towards making Christmas a little cheerier for those left facing a bleak Christmas.

Many of those who have lost their savings were on low incomes and so there was no safety net when Farepak collapsed, offering refunds of only a few pence in the pound. The charity, set up in the wake of the disaster, is accepting contributions from businesses and individuals and as Christmas fast approaches it will issue 'goodwill payments' in the form of vouchers to those who have been affected.

Commenting on the situation Julia Goldsworthy MP said:

"Christmas can often be a struggle for families on a low income; there can be a great deal of pressure to spend at this time of year. The collapse of Farepak in the run up to the festive season dealt a cruel blow to those who had saved hard for food and presents all year. This fund is an opportunity for all of us to enter into the spirit of Christmas and give what we can to help those who face a miserable 25th December."

This week is National Consumer Week. The purpose of the week is to highlight consumers' rights when buying and hiring goods and services.

Julia added that:

"Given the recent scandal surrounding Farepak, National Consumer Week could not come at a more appropriate time. There is still much to be done to protect consumers. The government should learn from this example, and take a tougher line with ruthless businesses, so that consumers are not left vulnerable."

The closing date for donations is Thursday the 24th November so for those wishing to make a donation, this week is their last chance. See http://www.farepakresponsefund.org.uk/ for more details on how to donate.