Residents and local communities come together for Christmas across Newcastle

Residents and colleagues at care homes across Newcastle 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.

Cranlea in Newcastle Upon Tyne, Northbourne in Gateshead, and Palmersdene in Jarrow 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. 

At Cranlea, this year's light switch-on was made even more special and memorable by a surprise visit from Peter Beardsley MBE, the renowned English football coach and former Newcastle United player. Peter spent time with residents, chatting warmly about his playing days, sharing stories from his illustrious career, and reminiscing about memorable matches. 

Laura Verrill, Home Manager at Cranlea, says:

Christmas is always memorable across Anchor care homes. It’s a time when residents, their families, and our colleagues come together to celebrate, reminisce, and create new memories. From the excitement and spectacle of the lights switch-ons that officially mark the beginning of the season and bring our local communities together to the special visits, it's been amazing to see how much joy is being shared across our home and beyond.

Gillian, resident at Cranlea, says:

I’m enjoying every moment of the celebrations. There’s such a feeling of togetherness in the home. I had such a lovely conversation with Peter about the old days of Newcastle United, and it meant a great deal to me to meet someone I've admired for so many years. Everyone is working so hard to make Christmas so special for us here at Cranlea.

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.