2 December 2024
A festive musical treat hit just the right note at our annual Ridgeway carers and families Christmas event in Middlesbrough this weekend.
Patients gathered for the seasonal celebration with loved ones and staff to enjoy an afternoon of carol singing, tasty food and a Christmas quiz at our secure inpatients service.
“This is one of my favourite events of the year at Ridgeway. It’s all about bringing families together,” said engagement facilitator Steph Addison.
“Seeing our patients with their families and carers enjoying themselves with our colleagues, and us all celebrating together, is wonderful. It makes for a lovely community feeling.”
Festive fun for all
Terri, the carer link for Newtondale Ward, added: “This annual celebration brings families tog ether in a more relaxed way, and it’s really nice to see people enjoying themselves.”
Staff from Ridgeway’s recovery, engagement and co-creation team spent weeks organising Sunday’s special event – and delivered hours of festive fun for all.
Carol singers from Vocalise Choir proved a big hit during the get-together, as did the traditional pies and pies menu – alongside a host of seasonal activities.
Chance to relax at Christmas
Staff members Marie and Jen, who served up food and drinks during the event, said: “It’s great to see families, carers, staff and patients all relaxed and enjoying themselves.”
One of the Ridgeway patients, who read some of his poetry during the celebration, added: “It’s nice to have something to enjoy with our families. It’s a chance to talk and relax.”
The annual Ridgeway Christmas event also proved popular with the carers who attended – with staff praised for their work in organising the gathering.
One carer, who has a relative at Ridgeway, said: “It’s lovely that Ridgeway puts something like this on. Everyone enjoys themselves – and the singing is lovely too.”
