Schools, community groups and churches are being called on to help brighten the lives of care home residents across Bath and North East Somerset this Christmas by livestreaming their festive events or by sending Christmas cards and video messages.

With many forms of entertainment in care homes curtailed and restrictions on visiting where necessary as a result of the coronavirus pandemic, Bath & North East Somerset Council is encouraging community groups to bring a little Christmas cheer to residents.

Councillor Rob Appleyard, cabinet member for Adult Services, said: "It has been an incredibly tough year for everyone, but particularly those living in care homes who may not have family or who can't see their loved ones regularly because of COVID-19.

"Care home staff have done a fantastic job keeping residents' morale up, and it would be an added bonus if we could virtually connect our care homes to festive events and organise video messages or Christmas cards to be sent to residents so they don't feel isolated from the wider community during the festive period."

Tricia Davis, Head of Service for B&NES homes and extra care, added: "Our elderly residents really enjoy receiving messages all year round from local community groups, school children and their families, and knowing that our communities are thinking of them particularly at Christmas, the time of year we all remember family and loved ones, is even more precious."

Schools and organisations that would like to take part should contact [email protected]