Care villages use technology to share the magic of Christmas

However, the show went online instead, with Belong Wigan residents enjoying a carol concert performed by children at St. Benedict’s Primary School in Wigan via Zoom.

Pupils at Chowbent Primary School in Atherton also performed a nativity play that was live-streamed for audiences at both care villages.

The care village has developed partnerships with local community organisations throughout the year, with Forza Dance Studios performing weekly routines and St. Richard’s Primary School pupils reciting poems for National Poetry Day.

Students have also found creative ways of getting Christmas messages to the care villages, with Rowan Tree Primary School sending heart-shaped Christmas tree decorations bearing season’s greetings to Belong Atherton.

Children from Hawkley Hall High School also made Christmas cards for each of the residents of Belong Wigan.

Michael Hull, a resident of Beech household at Belong Wigan who watched the St Benedict’s carol service, said: “I thoroughly enjoyed myself watching the children from the school.

“I cannot wait to see more performances, and hopefully we will see them all again soon when we can.”

Tanya Guy, experience coordinator at Belong Wigan, said: “Intergenerational activities form an important part of our activities programme. While rapid Covid-19 testing for visitors means that residents can safely see their see loved ones, visits from external activity providers and local organisations can’t take place.

“Technology has enabled residents, including grandparents who wouldn’t normally be able to attend performances at schools, to enjoy some of the traditional features of the festive season and get into the Christmas spirit.

“I’d like to thank the local schools for the impact that they’ve had this year.”

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