Festive fun and friendship fill care homes across South Yorkshire

Residents and colleagues at care homes across South Yorkshire are embracing the festive spirit in style.

From crafting Christmas decorations and singing carols, to decorating trees and baking festive treats, each activity is bringing smiles, laughter and a sense of togetherness. These celebrations are a wonderful reminder of the positive impact creativity and community can have on people’s wellbeing during the festive season.

Homes across the region – including Brackenfield Hall, Dearne Hall, Hatfield House, Herries Lodge, Oakwood Grange and Prior Bank - kicked off their festive celebrations with their spectacular Christmas lights switch-ons. The annual tradition is a much-loved moment in the lead-up to Christmas, bringing joy to residents and the local community. Residents have also been busy creating their own decorations to hang on their care homes’ Christmas trees.

Festive cheer has filled Brackenfield Hall in Sheffield this December, with a lively programme of activities bringing joy to residents. The festive ‘selfie station’ has been a hit, with residents and colleagues snapping Christmas card-worthy photos with the likes of Santa hats and reindeer ears. Brackenfield Hall also held its Christmas market, attracting residents, families and members of the local community. From cosy knitwear to homemade treats and hand-crafted goods, there was something for everyone, making it the perfect opportunity for residents to finish their Christmas shopping. Creativity has been flowing too, with residents enjoying the annual Christmas cake competition. 

Cheryl Schofield, Home Manager at Brackenfield Hall says:

We’re having so much fun this Christmas celebrating all together – it's wonderful to see just how much joy our activities are bringing. Our team puts so much care into creating moments that bring people together, from hosting our Christmas market to creative crafts – thank you to everyone who has been involved in making this time so magical.

Julie, resident at Brackenfield Hall, says:

The festive activities at Brackenfield Hall have been exciting. I always said to my friend Margaret you will still be with me in a care home and look at us now, but what fun are we having it’s the best place for us to be.

We are proud of the real community feel each of our care homes have, where people interact with fellow residents, families and friends, and are supported to continue doing all the things they enjoy. Christmas is a special time of year for so many reasons and colleagues always take this great opportunity to organise some extra special activities. Find out more about our approach to wellness here.