Local school joins Newbury care home for a journey into Christmas past

Old festive traditions came to life at two care homes in Newbury, where residents welcomed locals for a day of seasonal activities. 

Care UK’s Winchcombe Place, on Maple Crescent, joined forces with young visitors from The Winchcombe School to revisit customs from Christmas past.

On the day, children and residents took part in a host of festive activities including carol singing, card and garland making. To top the day off, everyone enjoyed classic mince pies. 

Resident Daphne Jones, aged 85, said: “I loved having the children over and making cards and paper chains. It reminded me that Christmas is really about the little things in life because they matter the most.”

Claire Cullen, Home Manager at Winchcombe Place, said: “We believe in the power of intergenerational connections, and inviting local schools to celebrate Christmas traditions with us is a great way to foster these relationships. 

“It’s activities like these that keep traditions alive and ensure they are celebrated for generations to come. I’d like to say a big thank you to the Winchcombe School for coming along and making the day one to remember!” 

Meanwhile, Newbury Grove, on London Road opened its doors to the local community  for a gingerbread making session.

The events were part of Care UK’s ‘Step into Christmas’ initiative, which aims to revive residents’ festive traditions, encouraging them to share memories with the local community and younger generation. 

Adarsh Kurian, General Manager at Newbury Grove, added: “We love bringing people together, and inviting the community to join us in celebrating Christmas traditions is a joyful way to strengthen community spirit.

“Gingerbread decorating was a hit, the room was full of laughter and festive cheer. It was wonderful to see residents and the community working side by side, sharing stories, making crafts, and enjoying the season together.”

For more information about Step Into Christmas, visit https://www.careuk.com/Step-into-Christmas  

Designed to enable residents to lead active and fulfilled lives, while also promoting independence, both Winchcombe Place and Newbury Grove provide full-time residential and dementia care, as well as short-term respite care, in luxury surroundings. The homes incorporate plenty of space for leisure activities and hobbies and boast their own café, cinema room and hair and beauty salon.