Child and Youth Care Worker, Lesley brightens up Christmas time for everyone around her.
Since joining Kibble four years ago, Lesley has chosen to spend every Christmas Eve and Christmas Day at Kibble, creating memories for young people who she has formed strong bonds with. The festive period has the power to bring overwhelming emotions to the forefront for some and Lesley takes the time to plan how the day can be enjoyed. Over the years, meaningful traditions have since been created due to Lesley’s compassionate energy and enthusiasm for making good memories during the demanding time of year.
Lesley with the festive Christmas tree.
Lesley’s preparations begin long before the 24th December as she is determined to bring joyful moments while also offering space to those who wish to reflect and remember special people who are no longer with us.
The traditions involve Christmas Eve boxes, which include matching jammies to wear the night before waking up in the morning to a big breakfast and presents. Young people spend the day relaxing before having Christmas dinner and Lesley’s on-hand to prepare any special requests from young people – one being a wish for honey-glazed carrots. As well as the Christmas meals, a cheeseboard and snacks are fan-favourites too. The house has a large open plan kitchen and living area where young people are happy to be and help prepare the dinner and set the table.
Lesley and some young people want to remember past loved ones and will do so by lighting-up balloons together. The time of year can magnify feelings of grief and sadness therefore there must be the option to step away from the festivities when needed and have quiet time to reflect.
The house where Lesley is based, may pair up with another house and spend time together. The number of people in each house can differ depending on if young people are seeing family members. By getting together, there’s a bigger group to enjoy one another’s company.
Child and Youth Care Worker, Lesley and Service Manager, John who bring Christmas magic to life.
Lesley fully understands Christmas can mean different things to different people and encourages others to make it their own. Lesley has brought bespoke traditions to the house in the hope young people have memories they can hold on to and look back upon with happiness.