Chelsea care home opens its doors for a merry good time

Snow is falling, children are playing – and a Chelsea care home is opening its doors to help combat loneliness in the community this festive season.

On Friday 15^th December, from 12pm-4pm, Care UK’s Ellesmere House on Nightingale Place, is helping older members of the community to get into the festive spirit by joining residents, team members for a festive party. 

Studies have shown that almost 1.5 million older people feel lonelier at Christmas than any other time of year*. To help tackle loneliness, Care UK has launched its Care to Share initiative, designed to support older people through the festive season. 

More than 100 Care UK homes nationwide will be taking part to give older members of the community a safe and sociable space where they can enjoy some festive fun and good company – whether it’s singing along to Christmas carols or watching a Christmas movie with a mince pie.

At Ellesmere House, the team have been hard at work spreading Christmas cheer and have planned the ultimate festive party. On the day, children from Parklands School will be coming along in their finest festive outfits, and delivering a handmade card to every party-goer. There will also be Christmas performance from the children and visitors can sit back and enjoy a mince pie and mulled wine. 

Margaret Kimathi, Home Manager at Ellesmere House, said: “Here at Ellesmere House, we’re passionate about playing an active role in our community, so we’re delighted to be opening our doors to our Christmas party. 

“Christmas is always an exciting time here at Ellesmere House, with everyone sharing their favourite memories, traditions – and carols. Music is a wonderful way to bring people together and prompt conversation and connection with others, improving wellbeing and reducing loneliness. 

“We’re looking forward to welcoming children from Parklands School and our older neighbours for a festive sing-along and look forward to building on new and existing relationships – we’re already brushing up on our song lyrics in preparation!”

To find out more about Care UK’s Care to Share initiative, please visit: careuk.com/caretoshare 

Ellesmere House offers a full range of permanent residential care and short-term respite, including a café, hair and beauty salon, bar and cinema. The highly trained, professional team also delivers specialist dementia care.