Residents at care homes across Bath and North East Somerset have thanked the children, individuals, church groups and businesses who helped them brighten their Christmas.
Bath & North East Somerset Council launched an appeal for people to send Christmas cards or video messages and to livestream events to care homes over the festive period.
Among those spreading festive cheer were eight-year-old Daniel Bentley from Midsomer Norton, who sent residents homemade Christmas cards, the One Church in Keynsham who livestreamed their Christmas show and the Rotary Club of Bath who worked with Bath Radio to livestream their Christmas Carol Service.
TSB paid for the Christmas Day lunch of staff and residents at Greenacres Court in Midsomer Norton.
Resident Enid Snook said: “It’s been a very difficult year for us not seeing as much of our family as we liked to of, so having a lovely generous offer of a free delicious Christmas lunch from TSB shows lovely community spirit within our local area. Thank you.”
The children of Country Garden Day Nursery in Dunkerton recorded a special video of songs and dance, which residents at several homes were able to watch.
Les Gratton, nursery manager, said: “We felt it was important that we were doing our bit after such a difficult year for people in care homes. We hope we brought them some joy.”
Even Santa recorded a special message for residents in a Zoom chat with the Mayor of Bath Councillor Manda Rigby.
Rob Appleyard, cabinet member for Adult Services, said: “It’s been such a difficult year for residents of care homes with many unable to see family and loved ones as much as they’d like.
“While staff certainly pulled out all the stops to ensure everyone had a happy Christmas, the efforts of the individuals and organisations who volunteered to spread a little extra festive cheer in our care homes really helped to lift the spirits of residents.
“I’d like to thank everyone who got involved, from those who donated Christmas trees, to the children who shared their wonderful artwork and Christmas performances online, your kindness and generosity is very much appreciated. Thank you.”
