In the UK, 225,000 older people struggle with loneliness. This time, every year Peabody organises Winter Warmers. As part of the Winter Warmers Scheme, Peabody employees visit our elderly residents that need us more than anyone else. It is considered that 225,000 older people in the UK often go a whole week without speaking to anyone.
Winter Warmers is much more than checking people’s heating is working (although that is also important!). Winter Warmer's visits from our employees are about showing residents that we care. We know that the visits mean a lot to residents. Some of them are not able to get out and about easily anymore, so they will be really pleased to see a friendly face.
Providing comfort and support to vulnerable residents.
We have interviewed some of our colleagues to find out more on what it really means to be involved in an event like this.
Jess said that it’s an experience that will stay with her forever.
“I have done Winter Warmers for a few years and I have met some amazing characters, from a World War II evacuee, a photographer who used to photograph The Beatles! I even ended up spending an hour with one resident who used to work for the BBC and told me some great stories about a politician, that I couldn’t possibly repeat!
On the flip-side I also heard some sad stories about loss and loneliness, coming from people who hadn’t spoken to anybody for a while and that is essentially the rewarding part, being able to touch in with those vulnerable residents to give them help and support if they need it.”
Sarah was part of the team who carried out the first Winter Warmers at Peabody and is very proud of what it has become.
She originally started doing Winter Warmers as part of her role as a Neighbourhood Manager and found it a fulfilling task.
“During Winter Warmers I have partnered with colleagues from across the business, some colleagues who would never usually get out of the office. So, it’s great a way to see our estates and see how our residents live. It’s also an insight into all the amazing work that our Neighbourhoods team do daily, and I think it always astounds people how challenging this role can be."
Antonia met some really interesting people too on Winter Warmers.
“Last year I visited a lady - I think she was 105! She was amazing. And also some ex-actors, one of whom sang to me for most of the visit. As someone that doesn't generally work with our residents, I find it a great opportunity to get out and about meeting the people we work for and seeing more of our neighbourhood areas. I'm really looking forward to it again this year.”
Each year our colleagues take pride in reaching out and supporting our local residents, Peabody not only provide great value homes for our communities but we make sure our residents feel safe and secure in them - we look forward to taking part again next year.
Find out more about Winter Warmers →