Why I love working Christmas Day in Forres
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Some Forres folk are putting family plans on hold this Christmas as they dedicate themselves to keeping essential services running.
Among this number is Suzie Langham who will be enjoying Christmas Day and Boxing Day with the elderly residents of Meadowlark Care Home.
Speaking about why she chose to work, Suzie said: "There is no feeling quite like seeing the sparkle in the eyes of the residents when we tell them it’s Christmas Day. They truly light up.
"I’m known for singing around the home, so I'll be keeping folk entertained with Christmas carols while getting them ready for the day.
"They'll be dressed in their Christmas jumpers or special outfits.
"We get a big traditional table set with crackers and party hats and all sit down to enjoy Christmas dinner together, making sure all of the trimmings are just as the residents like them."
Suzie has worked at Meadowlark for three years.
In that time she's built very close relationships with many of the residents.
Suzie continued: "We want to make Christmas as special as we can beacuse our residents are like family. We want them to have a fantastic day."
Some residents come out of their shells on Christmas Day.
Suzie said "We’ve had previously quite withdrawn people come out in the communal areas, dancing and enjoying a glass of bubbly.
"It’s magical to see the effect that the nostalgia of Christmas has on people.
"It’s such a boost to see the joy on the faces.
"I'm so thankful that I can be a part of that."
Meadowlark, which currently caters for 57 residents, focuses on person-centred care.
The facility on Mannachie Road is part of the Renaissance Care Group which operates 16 homes across Scotland, caring for 760 residents and employing 1150 staff.
