Barchester Healthcare has launched a major new national campaign designed to encourage the public to support vulnerable and lonely people during the festive period. The '12 Ways to Care This Christmas' initiative also aims to raise awareness of the essential, everyday work performed by carers across the United Kingdom.
Spreading Festive Kindness and Connection
While Christmas is traditionally a time for celebration and togetherness, it can intensify feelings of isolation and present extra challenges for many, particularly older individuals living alone. In response, Barchester's campaign translates the routine, compassionate actions of professional carers and nurses into twelve simple suggestions for public action.
The core message is that seemingly small acts of kindness can have a profound impact. The campaign outlines practical steps anyone can take to make a tangible difference in their community this December.
The Twelve Suggested Acts of Care
The list provides a clear blueprint for festive goodwill, focusing on companionship, practical help, and emotional support:
- Share a Festive Chat: A simple conversation about memories or the season can brighten someone's entire day.
- Include Someone in Your Plans: Invite a neighbour for a mince pie or to a local event to combat isolation.
- Help with Tasks: Offering assistance with shopping or wrapping gifts can relieve pressure and preserve independence.
- Swap a Christmas Memory: Reminiscing fosters connection and joy, a technique carers often use.
- Bring a Festive Treat: A small, thoughtful gift of food creates comfort and shows you care.
- Add Festive Sparkle: Helping to put up a decoration can transform a living space and lift spirits.
- Check on a Neighbour: A regular "How are you?" helps people feel seen, supported, and safe.
- Offer a Lift: Overcoming mobility barriers can enable someone to attend a social event.
- Enjoy an Activity Together: Sharing a game, film, or song encourages laughter and connection across generations.
- Ensure Warmth and Comfort: Helping with blankets or winter-ready clothing is a deeply attentive gesture.
- Help with a Video Call: Acting as a digital bridge to connect loved ones far and wide.
- Be the Reason Someone Smiles: A smile or moment of kindness is the fundamental heartbeat of care.
Inspiring a New Generation of Carers
According to Barchester, these gestures mirror the patience and practical support demonstrated by carers daily. The organisation hopes the campaign will not only prompt people to look out for older neighbours, friends, and relatives but also inspire those who find fulfilment in helping others to consider a career in care.
Kristy McGrory, Recruitment Marketing Manager at Barchester Healthcare, stated: "Every one of these actions mirrors a real part of what our carers and nurses do daily in Barchester homes. Their compassion and ability to connect with people is what makes care so special."
She added: "When we show care at Christmas, we don't just support older people; we also shine a light on the people who dedicate their lives to caring all year. And if you get real satisfaction from supporting older people over Christmas, you might find caring could be a meaningful career for you too."
National Roll-Out and Recruitment Drive
The initiative has a dual purpose: fostering community spirit and addressing the national need for more care staff. Throughout December 2025, Barchester will deploy a series of posters in high-footfall locations like shopping centres and bus stations, especially in regions with staffing shortages.
These posters will highlight several of the "12 Ways to Care" and direct interested individuals to information about career opportunities within the care sector, turning seasonal goodwill into potential long-term vocation.
