Care home residents treated to Christmas shopping spree

A LOTTERY inspired fundraiser has given Tyneside care home residents a chance to go Christmas shopping.

Residents at Waverley Lodge Care Home, in Lemington, Newcastle, were able to take a festive trip to the Metro Centre thanks to kind-hearted staff.

Carers Vicky Walker, Clair Mair and Kelly Graham and domestic worker Emma Walker have been running a “Bonus Ball” fundraiser to cover the cost of the trip.

Since the beginning of October, family members and other staff have been able to purchase a number for £1 each week – with the winning number receiving a portion of the profits as a prize.

The game raised over £240 to pay for transport to the Metro Centre and lunch at Nando’s for six residents, accompanied by staff from the home.

Vicky Walker, one of those accompanying residents on the trip, said: “We wanted to take residents Christmas shopping but some, unfortunately, don’t have families or much money on their personal allowance, so we organised a fundraiser to help cover the costs.

“Everyone had a wonderful time. The residents loved looking around the shops. The ladies especially liked Debenhams as they were able to try the different perfumes for free.

“None of the residents had ever been to Nando’s before and were really impressed that it catered for the dietary needs of everyone.

“They were all very impressed with the giant Christmas tree in the centre of the mall as well.”

Resident Jillian Gallagher bought wool for her knitting and a CD, while fellow resident Clara Jaconelli bought Christmas decorations for her bedroom.

Resident Irene Bolam helped pick the colour themed decorations for the care home during the trip. She said: “I had a lovely day out. The centre looked lovely for Christmas.”

Fellow resident Norma Scott added: “It was a great day out and the best of all the girls paid for everything.”