Staff at Scarborough Community Services brought festive cheer to socially isolated patients this Christmas through a thoughtful and heartfelt initiative.
The team, who provide 24-hour community nursing to residents across Scarborough seven days a week, recognised that many of their patients live alone and experience little to no social interaction over the festive period. For some, the season passes without receiving a single Christmas card or gift.
In a bid to make a difference, staff came up with the idea of delivering Christmas cards signed by the patients’ healthcare professionals during their regular care visits.
To turn this idea into reality, the Scarborough Hub reached out to Health Stars for funding support. Thanks to their contribution, the cards ensured that patients felt remembered and cared for during what can be a lonely time of year.
Sarah Locker, Service Manager for Scarborough Community Services, expressed her pride in the team’s compassion and creativity:
“I am so proud of my team for thinking of this idea. It’s a small gesture, but hopefully will be meaningful for people whose only social interaction might be at the time of the visiting nurse or therapist.
“The kindness of staff is amazing, especially when working under significant pressures, yet they continue to prioritise the holistic needs of their patients and add a little Christmas warmth.”
The initiative highlights the importance of addressing emotional and social wellbeing alongside physical care. By combining kindness with innovative thinking, Scarborough Community Services helped to ensure the festive season felt a little less lonely for their patients.
