‘Real Mrs Claus’ spreads festive joy to vulnerable youngsters for 24th year

A SCOTTISH woman who has spent two decades making Christmas magical for vulnerable young people has been hailed as “the real Mrs Claus”.

- BY EDEL KENEALY

Helen Sloan is preparing to spend her 24th Christmas Day with Kibble in Paisley to ensure that care-experienced young people have a day to remember.

She works in the charity’s housing support team, helping young people settle into their homes and teaching essential life skills such as cooking and budgeting.

But it is the emotional support provided by Helen that young people cherish most, especially at Christmas.

She said: “I give them my undivided attention. I never rush off or say I need to go. I want young people to know I am always there for them.”

For Helen, the magic of Christmas begins on Christmas Eve, when she visits each young person with a Santa sack filled with new pyjamas and small gifts before settling down to watch a Christmas film together.