As lovely as Christmas is, there are always the inevitable stresses and strains of the season – if you feel it would make all the difference to have someone to shop with then we’ve got lots of people who would love to help at Christmas. And if you’d rather not venture out to crowded shops they will be just as happy if you send them shopping with a list. Or maybe you’d like help doing a bigger food shop than you normally do? Remember, our hourly rate covers use of a car for local journeys which makes things even easier.
If you don’t really enjoy being in town it’s just as easy sitting in the comfort of your own home and doing a spot of internet shopping. If you have a computer and internet access but want a bit of help using it to shop, then we have people who would love to come and help you. You may have all your present shopping sorted, but would like some help with decorating your home and wrapping presents. We’re very happy to provide one-off help if that’s all you need. We’ve got some fabulous cooks on the team and love catering for special occasions. If you would like to invite friends or family round for a meal but feel you need help then do call us. Or if you would like help to make some of your favourite festive treats we’d love to cook with you.
We know that Christmas isn’t an easy time of year for everyone, and it can be frustrating that your usual activities and clubs all stop for a few weeks. If you are struggling and need to talk to someone Silver Line, the telephone support line launched by Esther Rantzen in 2013 for older people, is still going strong. It is manned everyday of the year and you can speak so someone by calling freephone 0800 470 8090. The Samaritans can also provide a listening ear and is available for anyone to call at any time of day on 116123.
Christmas is an expensive time of year, and with the increases in heating and food costs it’s good to be claiming all the benefits you are eligible for. If you are in receipt of any support at home and are state pension age you should be claiming the Attendance Allowance. You can call your local Citizens Advice Bureau for further information and help with completing the application form.
We were given some great advice from a local project some years ago: “Your neighbours might not be your dearest, but they are your nearest. Knowing who lives closest to you could be a real benefit should you ever require support. Christmas is a perfect excuse to introduce yourself to your neighbour so why not pop a Christmas card through your neighbour’s door this year?
If we can be of help at Christmas please get in touch. In the meantime we wish you a very happy and healthy Christmas.