TWO Southampton care homes are throwing their doors open to the elderly for Community Christmas

Northlands House and Wilton Manor Bupa care homes in Southampton are once again opening their doors to elderly people in the community who face Christmas Day alone this year.

The homes have partnered with Re-engage, a charity that aims to alleviate loneliness and social isolation among over 75s, and their Christmas campaign "Community Christmas".

Re-engage - formerly Contact the Elderly - is a charity that is positive about older age and committed to fighting loneliness so that people can have social lives and friendship groups however old they are.

Christmas day can be a time of year where older people can feel particularly lonely, the campaign aims to bring back the real spirit of Christmas, ensuring that no older person in the UK spends Christmas Day alone.

Northlands House and Wilton Manor will open their doors this Christmas to welcome local, older guests experiencing loneliness to enjoy a traditional roast dinner, festive games and entertainment, plus company from staff and residents at the home.

Regional Director, Danni Davies, said: “We know loneliness is a growing issue for elderly people - at Christmas and all year round.

"We’re pleased to be able to support Community Christmas by opening our doors on Christmas Day to offer older members of our community somewhere they can enjoy a traditional Christmas dinner with all the trimmings and some festive fun in the company of others.

“I know our residents are looking forward to welcoming some new faces to the table on Christmas Day.”

For further information about the day or to book your place, call free on 0808 115 4520 or email events@bupa.com.