Christmas is a season of giving, and what better gift to share than your time, skills, and passions? For those living in Burghley Living’s wonderful homes for the over 55s, the festive season offers an ideal opportunity to connect with family, friends, and the local community while taking part in the hobbies and talents that bring you joy.
Whether you’re making handmade gifts, teaching the grandchildren a cherished craft, or volunteering in your local area, there are countless ways to give back and make this Christmas truly meaningful. Here’s how residents of Albany Lodge in Derby, Alderman Lodge in Brighouse, and Royles Lodge in Thornton-Cleveleys can embrace the spirit of the season.
1. Handmade Gifts from the Heart
Creating handmade gifts is a wonderful way to combine creativity and thoughtfulness. Not only are these gifts deeply personal, but they also carry the added value of time and effort.
- Crafting Memories: Knit scarves, sew holiday decorations, or create personalised photo albums for loved ones. Burghley Living’s homes for the over 55s all feature beautiful communal lounges, providing the perfect backdrop for crafting sessions, which also double up as a great way to socialise with your neighbours.
- Baking Delights: Share your favorite festive treats, like homemade cookies, spiced cakes, or jars of chutney. Package them beautifully in reusable tins or glass jars for a sustainable touch.
- DIY Decorations: Create unique Christmas ornaments or wreaths for friends and family, incorporating natural elements like pinecones or dried oranges for a rustic charm.
2. Teaching Grandchildren a Craft or Skill
One of the greatest gifts you can give to the younger generation is your knowledge and experience. Christmas is the perfect time to pass down a skill or craft that has brought you joy.
- Cooking and Baking: Host a festive baking day where you teach your grandchildren how to make classic holiday recipes. From rolling out pastry for mince pies to decorating gingerbread men, these moments will create memories they’ll treasure forever.
- Craft Workshops: Teach your grandchildren how to knit, paint, or create Christmas cards
- Share a Story: Write or share stories from your own Christmases past. Pair the storytelling with a creative activity like illustrating a family Christmas scrapbook together.
3. Volunteering in Your Community
Giving your time to those in need is one of the most rewarding ways to celebrate the season, and Burghley Living’s homes for the over 55s are perfectly placed to connect with local communities and initiatives.
- Derby: Help out at local food banks or join a festive fundraising event for a local charity. Derby’s Padley Group often organises Christmas drives for those in need, and volunteering there can make a huge difference.
- Brighouse: Join community choir performances or assist with holiday events. The Brighouse Lions often run festive projects that welcome volunteers.
- Thornton-Cleveleys: Participate in a beach cleanup or assist with local holiday events. The Fylde Coast Women’s Aid and similar organisations may appreciate help spreading festive cheer to families in need.
4. Hosting Festive Gatherings with a Purpose
For those who love entertaining, hosting a festive gathering can be a wonderful way to give back or share your passions. Burghley Living’s beautiful homes for the over 55s make this easy, thanks to spacious layouts designed with hosting in mind.
- Charity Dinner Party: Organise a holiday meal where guests donate to a charity of your choice instead of exchanging gifts.
- Craft and Gift Exchange: Host a crafting party where neighbours or family can create handmade decorations or gifts to share.
- Community Spirit: Invite neighbours for mulled wine and mince pies to build connections and spread festive cheer.
5. Supporting Local Events and Artisans
Another way to make your time count is by supporting local businesses and artisans, particularly during the festive season.
- Christmas Markets: Explore local markets like Derby’s Cathedral Quarter, Brighouse Victorian Christmas Festival, or Thornton-Cleveleys artisan fairs. Shopping locally not only supports small businesses but also gives you a chance to discover unique gifts.
- Artisan Workshops: Participate in festive workshops like wreath-making or pottery. Many local artisans run classes where you can learn something new while supporting their craft.
6. Make Time for Yourself
Amidst all the giving, it’s important to remember that the most wonderful season of all is also about enjoying yourself. So, take a walk along the Wyre Estuary near Royles Lodge, enjoy the Calder Valley trails near Alderman Lodge, or soak in the festive lights at Markeaton Park in Derby.
Living in Burghley Living’s community-led homes for the over 55s, like Albany Lodge, Alderman Lodge, or Royles Lodge, means you’re part of a supportive and vibrant social calendar, where your skills and passions can shine. Make this Christmas-time one to remember by sharing what you love most with others—and enjoy the warmth and connection that comes with giving back.
Find out more information on Albany Lodge, Derby (Bramble Drive, Derby, Derbyshire, DE22 3ZB) by clicking here. Our 1 and 2-bedroom apartments for the over 55s are available to purchase now for £236,950, or available to rent from £1,900 per month (includes service charges).
Find out more information on Alderman Lodge, Brighouse (Elmwood Drive, Brighouse, West Yorkshire, HD6 2AL) by clicking here. Our 1-bedroom apartments are available to purchase from £196,950, or rent from £1,300 per month (includes service charges).
Find out more information on Royles Lodge, Thornton-Cleveleys, (Torentun Close, Thornton Cleveleys, Lancashire, FY5 5FE / Sat Nav FY5 4JZ) by clicking here. Our 1-bedroom apartments are available to purchase from £163,950 or rent from £1,300 per month (includes service charges). Or our 2-bedroom apartments are available to purchase from £256,950, or rent from £1,800 per month (includes service charges)
To enquire about Burghley Living, you can call us at any time on 0800 999 1989, or email us at info@Burghleygroup.co.uk
Our friendly team is here to help and they will respond as quickly as possible.
