STAFF from the corporate team at Barclays Bank in Clarendon Road, Watford, spent two days last week volunteering for homelessness charity Watford New Hope Trust.

Two teams of Barclays' employees have been getting their hands dirty clearing out, cleaning and re-doing the pond at the Trust's Haven Day Centre in Whippendell Road.

Ms Pat Betts, co-ordinator of the Barclays volunteer team, said: "With support from our employee volunteering programme, we have been given a grant to come and roll up our sleeves, and literally get stuck in.

"Getting out of the office and volunteering means we know we have helped make a difference to those who need it most.

"Working here with other colleagues develops team-building and communication back in the office."

On top of this very practical help, Barclays Bank has donated more than £5,000 to Watford New Hope Trust.

Ms Amanda Allchorn, community manager at Barclays, said: "As part of the Barclays 'Making a Difference' community programme, we are keen to support the disadvantaged.

"We have been delighted to link up with Watford New Hope Trust, who are themselves making a huge difference with their work in the community in Watford.

"They are enabling the homeless to find a place where they belong and hope for the future. Our donation reflects our commitment to enable this to happen."

The Haven is a drop-in centre for the homeless and disadvantaged, where people can get food, and can access a variety of services, including healthcare, resettlement advice, showers and practical skills workshops. It is part of the wider work of Watford New Hope Trust, a Christian charity supported by local churches, schools, companies and Watford Council, which aims to offer new hope to the homeless.