Housing Plus Group brings Christmas cheer to Stoke-on-Trent residents
More than 60 residents from Learning Disability care homes run by Housing Plus Group (HPG) in Stoke-on-Trent have been treated to a fun filled Christmas party, complete with music, dancing and dinner.
More than 60 residents from Learning Disability care homes run by Housing Plus Group (HPG) in Stoke-on-Trent have been treated to a fun‑filled Christmas party, complete with music, dancing and dinner.
For the first time, the annual celebration included a Christmas Gift Drive, with colleagues from across HPG generously buying presents for every resident. The personalised gifts were handed out during the party, bringing smiles and festive cheer to all who attended.
Claire Skelton, Director of Care and Support Service Development, said:
“It was wonderful to see our residents come together and enjoy such a special day. The addition of the Gift Drive meant everyone had something chosen just for them, which made the celebration even more meaningful. We’re so grateful to colleagues across Housing Plus Group for their generosity and to our Care and Support teams for making the party such a success."
Stacey, Assistant Manager, said:
"Our residents have loved it. What they’ve done with the presents this year is absolutely brilliant. All the presents are really person‑focused and they’ve loved them. One is still clutching the bag now, we can’t take it off him! This party has provided such a safe space for them to be, there’s no judgement and they’re accepted by everybody. It means the world to them. We’ve had competitions too such as best Christmas cards, best dressed house, best Christmas jumper. The standard has been really high this year!"
Sarah Walton, Support Worker, said:
"It’s been an amazing time for them. The biggest emotional and mental boost that they can have, getting together with people they have known for years. Especially for the youngest we have in our house. She doesn’t do social crowds usually but she has done amazing today. She’s not got over her fear but she’s got on really well and surprised all of us. She’s danced, eaten, has seen Santa and we saw the biggest smile we’ve ever seen. The look on their faces when they opened their presents, it was such a warm feeling inside knowing that they have the same as everyone else. It’s the best feeling ever. They’ve all had something that they liked – sensory gifts, books, colouring, chocolates. All the gifts have had thought put into them."
The event was made possible thanks to the dedication of Housing Plus Group's Care and Support teams, who worked tirelessly to bring residents together and create a day to remember.
18th December 2025