Darlington social care staff create magical Christmas for disabled adults

Determined not to let Omicron get in the way of festive cheer, Mandy Nichol, a support worker hatched a plan to ensure the people she supported could have a Christmas to remember.

Despite not having a budget, staff eagerly donated their spare time, money, and materials to transform a garden shed at one of United Response’s supported living services in Darlington into a spectacular Santa’s grotto.

Santa waiting to welcome people supported by United Response

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Staff from United Response were on hand to step into the roles of Santa and naughty elves so people supported by the charity and their families could experience something magical in their own back garden.

Social care staff are facing a tough winter with rising Covid cases and staff shortages but this small gesture highlights the compassion and dedication that the workforce has for bringing joy to the lives of the people they support.

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A local gardener built an impressive fireplace and chimney from scrap wood and wallpaper ends, and a local fabric shop donated some fabric to decorate the roof.

Mandy said: “The people we support were so happy. One of them said she fell in love with Santa! Even some of the parents joined in, some saying it was one of the best Christmases they’d had in a long time.”

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