Uniting for Compassion in 2024
**Notre Dame Students and Caring Together Celebrate Christmas Together**
Last week, the Health and Social Care department at Notre Dame hosted its annual Caring Together Christmas party. The event, held for local vulnerable adults residing in Woodhouse, Little London, and other city centre areas, was a festive gathering filled with joy, camaraderie, and learning opportunities.
The party included a variety of activities designed to bring smiles to everyone's faces. There was a performance by a choir, henna and nail painting, and Christmas quizzes. The decorations and Christmas cards were made by Level 2 Health and Social Care and L6 Education an Early Years T Level students prior to the festivities, adding a personal touch to the celebration.
One of the attendees, Sarah Saed, a Lower Sixth Health and Social Care student, expressed her enjoyment during the afternoon tea with Caring Together. Sarah mentioned that the scheme helped her build her confidence and gain an understanding of responsibility in the health setting. She felt the experience was amazing and believed the event helped develop skills for her future job.
Another student, who also attended the party, found it insightful for their future career. They learned about caring for the elderly during the event, gaining valuable insights into the field they are studying. Sarah Saed, who is also part of the 'Caring Together' group, stated that everyone at the event was lovely.
Caring Together is a local Neighbourhood Network Scheme that offers activities, advice, and practical support to people over 55. The scheme is funded by Leeds City Council and other organisations but is managed and run by its members, fostering a sense of ownership and empowerment within the community.
The key aspects of the scheme include reducing social isolation, acting as a gateway to advice and information services, promoting health and wellbeing, and offering support on issues like benefits, social care, and health and wellbeing. The scheme, part of a broader set of local support services, aims to enable older adults to maintain independence, including hospital discharge support and domestic assistance services, contributing to both wellbeing and social inclusion.
Overall, the Caring Together Christmas party was a success, bringing together students, elderly residents, and the community in a joyous celebration of the holiday season. The event not only provided a fun and engaging experience but also offered valuable learning opportunities for the students, helping them prepare for their future careers in the health and social care sector.
- The Health and Social Care department at Notre Dame also organizes workshops on workplace wellness, promoting the importance of fitness and exercise, mental health, and skin care for students and professional growth.
- Sarah Saed, a Health and Social Care student, shared her enthusiasm for the scheme, highlighting the impact it had on her personal development, particularly in understanding the significance of mental health in the men's health arena.
- In the new year, the department plans to collaborate with various therapies and treatments organizations to enhance their students' knowledge about aging and the associated health challenges for both women and men.
- As part of their education and self-development, students are encouraged to explore various education and self-development resources, including books, online courses, and workshops, to foster their ongoing learning and growth.
- The Caring Together scheme also partners with local organizations to offer workshops on career development, helping older adults explore new opportunities and stay engaged in their communities.
- The success of the Caring Together Christmas party underscores the importance of community involvement and collaboration, paving the way for further joint activities throughout the year that support health and wellness, education, and personal growth for all ages.
