Festive support brings Southwark families together at Darwin Court

Families from across Southwark came together at Peabody’s Darwin Court Healthy Living Centre on Wednesday 17 December for a festive community event offering practical support and a warm space to connect as Christmas approaches. 

Published: 23/12/2025

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Held at the centre on Crail Row, the event gave residents the chance to visit the food hub to pick up everyday essentials, choose donated goodies as gifts, and enjoy festive crafts, activities, hot drinks, and mince pies.  

Throughout the afternoon, around 100 residents dropped in to collect what they needed, while children took part in arts and crafts, and neighbours spent time chatting and catching up. 

Darwin Court has supported Peabody residents for many years and is a familiar, trusted hub in the community. With the cost of food and household bills continuing to rise, the event highlighted both the pressure many families are facing and the strength of local support networks. 

Julia Roseweir-Hockey, from the management team at Darwin Court, said: “Events like this are about more than the practical support. They’re about creating a welcoming space where people can come together, feel supported and know they’re not on their own.” 

Peabody works with partners at Darwin Court, including one of its contractors, Purdy, to support Southwark residents throughout the year, alongside activities that help bring the community together.