This year has seen record numbers of children living in unfit temporary accommodation. Ask them what they want for Christmas and, amongst the usual toys and treats, you’ll also get the UK’s housing emergency laid bare: a flushing toilet. My own bed. To see my friends again. No more damp.

It’s not much to ask. Temporary accommodation can harm children’s physical and mental health, their education and, in some cases, it can even be deadly. No child should ever have to live like this, let alone at Christmas.

Together, The Co-operative Bank and Shelter have been campaigning for fairer housing, amplifying the voices of our customers and supporters. Now, we’re standing with families by supporting Shelter’s appeal and helping to raise crucial funds this winter.

To raise money for this important cause, we'll be taking part in fundraising activities throughout December.

If you can, please donate now.