Spreading Christmas cheer to local children and those in need across Worcester

As the festive season approaches, Under The Tree is back for its second year, bringing together local businesses and residents to share the magic of Christmas with those who need it most.

Last year, the Worcester community came together in a wonderful display of kindness, donating hundreds of gifts and essential items to help local children and vulnerable people enjoy a brighter Christmas. This December, we’re inviting you to do it all again!

From Monday 1st to Monday 15th December 2025, Under The Tree will be collecting donations for both local children and rough sleepers.

🎁 For Local Children

We’re collecting unwrapped, new toys for children spending Christmas at the Children’s Ward at Worcestershire Royal Hospital, as well as for Kinship Carers who provide loving homes for children across the county.

Donation points:

• Barclays Bank
• Worcester Cathedral
• Tesco St Peter’s
• Worcester BID office (please pre-arrange a time with the team)

🎁 For Local Rough Sleepers

We’re also supporting Maggs, a local charity working tirelessly to help rough sleepers in Worcester. Donations of warm clothing, toiletries, and other essentials are welcomed. Please click here to view the full wishlist.

Drop-off point:

• Maggs

Your small gesture could mean the world to a child who might otherwise go without, or bring comfort to someone facing the cold winter nights.

Let’s come together once again to spread a little extra joy this Christmas. Every gift counts.

Brought to you by Worcester BID and Worcester Cathedral.

Worcester awarded Purple Flag for fourth successive year!

Worcester’s night-time economy has been recognised as being safe, thriving and vibrant, with the city achieving Purple Flag accreditation for the fourth consecutive year.

The prestigious status, first awarded to Worcester in 2022, recognises the city centre as a ‘safe and welcoming destination’ with a wide variety of leisure, shopping and entertainment options for all ages.

Partners Worcester City Council, West Mercia Police, Worcester Street Pastors and Worcestershire Regulatory Services have successfully supported Worcester Business Improvement District (Worcester BID) in the application process.

The Purple Flag status is administered and assessed by the Association of Town and City Management (ATCM) and signifies excellence in the evening and night-time economy.

Since receiving Purple Flag accreditation, the partnership has supported several safety initiatives including the Worcester Safe Space mobile van. Worcester Safe Space delivers support to people enjoying the city, along with providing first response and first aid care – reducing pressure on the NHS.

Samantha McCarthy, Chief Executive of Worcester BID, said: “We’re incredibly proud that Worcester has secured Purple Flag status for a fourth consecutive year, recognising the city’s vibrant, safe, and well-managed night-time economy.

“Worcester is fortunate to have a thriving mix of independent bars, restaurants, and clubs that contribute to a unique and welcoming evening experience.

“This achievement is a true reflection of the dedication and collaboration between our city partners – including West Mercia Police, Worcester City Council and Worcester Street Pastors – who work tirelessly to ensure our city remains a safe place for all.

“The introduction of Worcester Safe Space in December 2023 has been a pivotal addition, significantly strengthening our application and earning the initiative the Best Social and Community Contribution award.

“It’s a testament to what can be accomplished when we work together for the benefit of our community.”

Councillor Lynn Denham, Leader of Worcester City Council said: “I’m very proud that Worcester continues to be recognised as a safe and inviting place to visit in both the daytime and at night.

“Our partnership approach unites organisations from across the city to ensure residents and visitors have an enjoyable and safe experience while out and about in Worcester.

“Worcester’s success in securing the Purple Flag for a fourth year in succession also points to the pride that our different community groups feel in their city and the efforts of the City Council and our partners to ensure everyone feels welcome. Thank you and well done to everybody involved.”

Safer Neighbourhood Inspector for Worcester, Tanya Beckett, said: “I am delighted and proud that Worcester has been granted the prestigious Purple Flag status for the fourth year in a row.

“It is testament to the partnership efforts taking place every day of the year to keep Worcester a safe place to work, live and visit.

“The success of this achievement is thanks to the collaboration between West Mercia Police, Worcester BID, Worcester City Council, Worcester Street Pastors and Worcestershire Regulatory Services.

“We will not stop in our joint campaign to protect and serve the people who want to spend a night out in our vibrant and cultured city centre’s night-time economy in a safe and secure environment.”