With fears for tiers looming in December, it seems ‘tis the season to be careful.
However, one care home team are turning themselves into Santa’s little helpers, determined to raise the spirits of their residents despite the ongoing pandemic.
Over in Maidenhead, St Mark’s Bupa Care Home are inviting members of the public to send in Christmas cards to their community this festive season.
People are simply being asked to write uplifting messages and ping them to the little market town in Berkshire to help residents feel more connected over Crimbo.
Chatting about the initiative, home manager Doina Hirta said she hopes people never underestimate the power of opening a card, as it gives her residents a “very special feeling”.
Doina said: “The tradition of sending and receiving Christmas cards at this time of year is one many of our residents have always enjoyed.
“It is the best way of spreading Christmas cheer and keeping connected to those near and far. It’s a very special feeling to open a card and to know that someone cares about you and wants to wish you well at this time of the year.”
Doina also stressed that for those people unable to see their families, or who don’t have any relatives, this time of year can be difficult rather than feel merry.
“It’s a very special feeling to open a card and to know that someone cares about you and wants to wish you well at this time of the year.”
Doina Hirta, Care Home Manager
Yet the simplicity of a message can be enough to help those people feel connected again.
She continued: “If we can get enough cards so that each resident has the joy of opening something, that would be really special.
“In these unprecedented times, a show of community support like this would really boost everyone’s spirits in the home and make it an even merrier Christmas.”
So, how do you get involved?
Simply buy a card or use a spare from the box you have, jot down a note, then ping your envelope to St Mark’s Bupa Care Home, 110 St Mark’s Road, Maidenhead, Berkshire, SL6 6DN.
The cards will be opened by residents and placed around the home for everyone to enjoy.
Looks like it could be a merry Christmas after all.
