Sutton schools bring Christmas cheer to local care homes

The Care at Christmas campaign involved 19 local schools, both primary and secondary, creating Christmas cards and letters of thanks, producing artwork, sourcing gifts and recording videos to be sent to all 79 care homes in Sutton to lift their spirits during this unprecedented festive season.

Schools responded so positively to the Council’s call for participants that every single care resident in the borough will receive a handmade card made by a Sutton pupil. They also took the time to record videos of Nativity scenes, Christmas carols, fun facts about Christmas and enough activities to provide a video for each of the 12 Days of Christmas and some even sent paintings to be gifted to care homes.

Staff were thanked for their incredible work this year with a mixture of gifts made up into hampers, reflecting the borough’s appreciation for their extraordinary efforts, including: new mugs, chocolates, toiletries and face masks. These were delivered over the last week just before Sutton moved into Tier 4. 

Councillor Marian James, Chair of People Committee, said: “This year has shown the strength of our communities in Sutton and it’s wonderful to see so many of our schools’ pupils giving their time to brighten the Christmases of those in need of a lift.

“This initiative is also a thank you to the amazing care sector workers who have gone above and beyond during this pandemic. We as a borough are showing them how much they mean to us and that we appreciate their efforts in caring for our most vulnerable residents.”

NJ Cole, Headmaster at Wilson’s School, said: “We were delighted to support this amazing campaign organised by Helen Hayes at the London Borough of Sutton. Each of us, in our hour of darkness, seeks comfort by spending time with friends and family. Sadly this has not been possible for many in residential care this year. This letter writing campaign has allowed the children at my school to reach out to those who may be lonely or sad this Christmas. At Wilson’s we will never forget about those in need. Supporting them and reminding them they are not alone is the mark not just of decency, but civility. A Merry Christmas from us all.”

Rosalind Walker, Carshalton Boys Sports College, said: “Being involved in this project gave Carshalton Boys Sports College the opportunity as a school community to thank, support and be kind to members of our broader local community.”

Catherine Anderson, Rushy Meadow Primary Academy: “We were so pleased to be able to contribute to the video. We hope it will warm the hearts of the care home residents in Sutton at this challenging Christmas time.”

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