Oxfam is one if the UK's most recognised charities with the largest high-street presence. Did you know that they are always in need of handmade crafts they can sell to raise money including knitted and crocheted items? There's more details on their website which includes free knitting patterns including a knitted hat with flaps, a corsage and handwarmers. All knits and crochet pieces can be dropped to your local store. They also welcome sewn products too.

The Nightingale Cancer Support Centre is calling knitters and crocheters of every skill level to get involved with their Stitches of Support project. This community-based project aims to take knitted squares sent in by volunteers to create blankets for patients going through active cancer treatment. Squares can be in whatever design you like but need to be 8 x 8 inches in size and use a double knit stitch, they will be joined together to create blankets by the organisation's Knit and Natter group. Download one of their Stitches of Support forms here, to include with your squares so that they know where they've come from.

Knit-a-square is an organisation supported by a community of compassionate crafters to help make the lives of orphaned and vulnerable children in Africa better, one square at a time.  They are in need of volunteers to knit, crochet or loom 8-inch squares that can be turned into colourful blankets to gift to children. Full details on how to package and where to send finished squares can be found here.

Warm Baby Project welcome knitted and crocheted items for premature babies who need to keep warm. At the moment they need 24 inch blankets and newborn size hats (no holes, cab be crochet). They can be dropped off in Exmouth. You’ll find several free knitting patterns you could use on their website. Their facebook page is here.