Home Instead Lewes District & Uckfield launches ‘Be a Santa’ campaign to bring Christmas cheer to local older people

Home Instead Lewes District & Uckfield is once again spreading festive cheer with the return of its much-loved Be a Santa campaign. This community initiative aims to bring joy, connection, and kindness to older people who may be feeling lonely or isolated this Christmas.

The campaign invites local residents, businesses, and community groups to donate an unwrapped gift, which Home Instead volunteers will wrap and deliver to older people across Lewes District and the Uckfield area in time for Christmas.

Supporting older people through the festive season

For many older adults, Christmas can be a difficult and lonely time. As the days grow shorter and colder, feelings of isolation can intensify, particularly for those who live alone or have limited contact with family and friends.

“We know that loneliness can have a real impact on wellbeing, especially during the winter months,” said Alison Scutt, Owner of Home Instead Lewes District & Uckfield. “The Be a Santa campaign is our way of reaching out and reminding people that their community cares. A small gift can make a big difference and it’s not about the present itself, but the message of kindness and connection behind it.”

How to get involved

Taking part is simple:

• Purchase or bring an unwrapped gift suitable for an older person. Home Instead ask that the gift is new and unused.
• Drop it into one of the collection boxes (locations below).
• Home Instead volunteers will wrap and deliver the gifts to local older adults in time for Christmas.

Suggested Gifts

• Books
• Puzzle books, large-print crosswords or sudoku
• A comfy throw or blanket 
• A nice mug/quality tea/hot chocolate sachets
• A calendar with large print 
• Hand-cream/foot-cream 
• Something reflecting a hobby: knitting wool, bird feeder, etc.
• Tin of cookies/shortbread/biscuits/fudge

Collection Locations

• Tesco, Bellfarm Road, Uckfield TN22 1BA
• Taking donations until 28th November
• Home Instead, Suite 5, Ash House, The Broyle, Ringmer BN8 5NN
• Taking donations until 10th December
• Staverton Nursery Ltd, Eastbourne Road, Halland BN8 6PU
• Taking donations until 10th December
• Wealden Volunteering, 79 High St, Uckfield TN22 1AS
• Taking donations until 10th December

About Home Instead Lewes District & Uckfield

Home Instead provides high-quality, compassionate home care for older adults, helping them live independently, safely, and happily in their own homes. From companionship and personal care to dementia support and live-in care services, the team is dedicated to supporting local people and making a positive difference in the community all year round.

“Christmas is a time for giving and togetherness,” added Alison Scutt. “Through Be a Santa, we’re inviting everyone in our community to help us share that spirit with those who need it most.”

For more information about the Be a Santa campaign or Home Instead Lewes District & Uckfield’s care services, please call 01273 437040 or visit www.homeinstead.co.uk/lewes-district-uckfield/blog/be-a-santa-with-home-instead-lewes-district-uckfield/