From light switch-ons to live music: festive joy spreads across our care homes in Suffolk

Residents and colleagues at Anchor care homes across Suffolk are embracing the festive spirit. 

From crafting Christmas decorations and singing carols, to decorating trees and baking festive treats, each activity has brought 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.

Six homes across the region - including Canterbury House, Devonshire House, Marham House, St Josephs, St Marys, and The Firs - kicked off their festive celebrations with their spectacular Christmas light 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. 

This year, The Firs in Felixstowe have been taking festivities to new heights with an exciting programme of activities throughout December. Residents have been doing everything from Christmas baking to bingo and making full use of the home’s Namaste room, a multi-sensory space designed to improve the well-being of residents, which opened earlier this year. Each Sunday, residents have been exploring different senses through festive activities, from tasting homemade mince pies and mugs of cocoa to guessing Christmas scents and sharing Christmas memories. The home has also been hosting live music performances featuring local musicians, including Shane’s Rock & Roll Show.

Colleen Farrow, Home Manager at The Firs, says:

Christmas is always a memorable time across Anchor care homes for everyone involved. It’s a time when residents, their families, and our colleagues come together to celebrate, reminisce, and create new memories. From the excitement of the light switch-ons that officially mark the start of the season, to the warmth and laughter of intergenerational celebrations. It’s been amazing to see how much joy is being shared across our home and beyond.

Lesley, resident at The Firs, says:

Christmas has changed over the years. I look forward to getting together with my family. Here I have really enjoyed the wreath making, biscuit making. The Christmas light switch-on was really special they look amazing! It was lovely seeing everyone getting together. I am really looking forward to our Christmas party, especially getting up and having a boogie.

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.