Christmas can be a lonely time of the year for some people, while some have family bringing joy around them, others can be left feeling alone and isolated.
This year, we urge you to check in on loved ones and neighbours who may be alone this festive season.
From a simple post of a Christmas card through the letterbox to a knock at the door, share the Christmas cheer.
Things to check if you can:
- Is their home warm, and do they have jumpers/blankets to cover any cold spells?
- Do they have access to warm food and drink. Could you pop them over a Christmas dinner to brighten up their day?
- Do they need support with shopping, maybe offer to grab them a few bits during your food shop.
- Check to see if they take medication and if they have enough to last them when the GPs are shut. If not, offer to go with them to collect it or if not mobile, offer to collect it for them.
- Just have a chat. Sometimes, people just want a bit of company.
Don’t worry if you can’t do much, some people do not want any help. But maybe you can give them a Christmas card and write down your phone number, so if they do find they need anything, they have someone who they can contact.
If you’re concerned about someone’s health or welfare but don’t think it’s an emergency, call 111 for NHS advice, 24 hours a day. In other situations, you can contact the local council in the area where the person lives and raise an ‘adult safeguarding’ concern.
