The Street Paws charity is urgently trying to raise £10,000 this Christmas to help support more homeless hostels become dog friendly. 

The charity, which works with homeless people and their pets across the north of England launched the festive appeal in support of their ongoing Dog Champions Scheme. 

Backed by TV star and influencer Vicky Pattison, who visited the Changing Lives hostel in Newcastle earlier this month, it is hoped that the appeal will generate much needed funds during a tough time for the charity. 

With more people needing services than ever before Street Paws has worked hard to adapt its services to ensure that its good work can continue. 

Dog lover Vicky, who hails from the North East won I'm A Celebrity Get Me Out of Here in 2015, said: "Street Paws is a small charity that is super close to my heart.

"They support homeless people and help them to find pet friendly housing through their Dog Champion Scheme. Currently around 25% of homeless people have a pet companion, however only 10% of shelters will accept animals, this means that many have to choose between their beloved pet and a safe place to sleep. 

"The thought of making that decision brings tears to my eyes- I know I couldn’t leave my dogs out in the cold, could you? 

"This winter Street Paws are hoping to raise £10,000 to help ten new hostels to ensure no one is left out in the cold this winter. This goal is easily achievable if we all work together." 

Street Paws has been running since 2016 and works with local shelters and homeless people to provide vet treatment, training, pet supplies and support to help shelters set up to become pet friendly.

The charity partners with shelters all over the north from Newcastle to Manchester and their aim is to empower pet owners and give them the resources to make finding permanent housing possible. 

Michelle Southern, founder of Street Paws, said: "Since Street Paws began the challenges are constantly evolving, and this year has been no exception.