The Withington and Old Moat Integrated Neighbourhood Team (INT) have been working on a special project recently to help keep older residents within the locality warmer this winter.

The team has worked with the MCC Neighbourhood team, other partners, local voluntary groups, university students and primary school children to create winter warmer bags filled with handmade Christmas cards and other winter goodies such as socks, a fleece blanket, a thermal, and a travel mug. They hope all these items will bring some festive cheer, especially to those who live in isolation, and help them feel supported through the colder months. They even included recipe cards and leaflets that contained advice on things like where to get vaccinated and what’s on at Christmas, as well as copies of local newsletters.

Just after the packing party for the bags was held, Yasmin Holgeth, Health Development Coordinator who supported the project, said, “A big thank you to everybody who helped with our winter warmer bags. I’m sure that the handmade Christmas cards in each bag designed by local primary school children will bring a smile to many faces.”

The bags are now in the process of being distributed via GP practices, social workers, district nurses and community venues to residents who need them the most.

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