Newbury care home opens its doors for a merry good time

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

On Monday 4^th December, from 6.15pm-8pm, Care UK’s Winchcombe Place, on Maple Crescent, is helping older members of the community to get into the festive spirit by joining residents and team members for a special carol service.

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 Winchcombe Place, the team have been spreading Christmas cheer and warming up their vocal chords ready for the home’s very own Christmas carol concert. Visitors will be able to join residents and pupils from Winchcombe School for a sing-along to some Christmas classics, as well as enjoy everyone’s favourite festive treats – mince pies and mulled wine.

Shirley Summerbell, Home Manager at Winchcombe Place, said: “We’re looking forward to opening our doors for a special carol service as part of the Care to Share initiative.

“Christmas is always an exciting time here at Winchcombe Place, 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 teaming up with Winchcombe School and welcoming 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