People are being encouraged to help spread some early Christmas joy and send a card or two to people living in care homes.

Bupa care homes Wilmington Manor, Broad Oak Manor in Sutton-at-Hone and Eglantine Villa in Horton Kirby, among others, are calling on people to help residents feel more connected and send in messages of goodwill.

The cards will be opened by residents and placed around the homes for everyone to read and enjoy.

For many, Christmas is a time of joy, celebration and family, but for some it can be a lonely and emotional time, reflecting on loved ones who have passed.

When asked what it means to residents to receive a Christmas card, home manager Caroline Soriano said: “The tradition of sending and receiving Christmas cards at this time of year is one many of our residents have always enjoyed.

"It is the best way of spreading Christmas cheer and keeping connected to those near and far. It’s a very special feeling to open a card and to know that someone cares about you and wants to wish you well at this time of the year.

“We do everything we can to ensure residents have a fun-filled Christmas. However, for those who are unable to see their families or who don’t have any relatives, it can be a difficult time. If we can get enough cards so that each resident has the joy of opening something during the festive season, that would be really special.

“The Kent community has really come together this year so we’re hoping the same spirit can help rally lots of Christmas cheer.

"In these unprecedented times, a show of community support like this would really boost everyone’s spirits and make it an even merrier Christmas.”

You can post a Christmas card to: Wilmington Manor Bupa Care Home, Common Lane, Wilmington, Dartford, DA2 7BA; Broad Oak Manor Bupa Care Home, Broad Oak Close off Arnolds Lane, Sutton-at-Hone, Dartford, DA4 9HF; or Eglantine Villa Bupa Care Home, Eglantine Lane, Horton Kirby, Dartford, DA4 9JL.

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