A heartfelt thank you goes out to the incredible volunteers from AstraZeneca who joined residents and the team at both Langdon House and Alex Wood House in Cambridge this month.
The day was filled with laughter, creativity, and festive spirit as volunteers worked alongside residents to bring some Christmas magic to life.
Led by AstraZeneca’s Louise and John, 15 enthusiastic volunteers visited each care home, bringing an abundance of art supplies and festive cheer. The arts and crafts sessions included creating beautiful baubles, festive greeting cards, and colourful paper chain garlands. The activity was a hit with residents, who love the chance to reminisce about Christmases past while chatting with the volunteers.
The creative spirit wasn’t limited to the craft tables – AstraZeneca’s team transformed windows into festive masterpieces, filling the homes with the Christmas spirit. The residents, who always enjoy meeting new faces and engaging with different groups, were delighted by the energy and kindness of the volunteers.
AstraZeneca’s team rolled up their sleeves to assist the lifestyles teams at both homes, preparing decorations for the Winter Fayre at Alex Wood House. The event, which featured Santa Claus and real reindeer, was a highlight of the year and well attended by members of the Arbury community, and the decorations crafted by residents and volunteers brough sparkle to the day.
At Langdon House, the volunteers hosted a lively bingo session, where tea, mince pies, and friendly chatter added to the festive atmosphere.
Amber Christou, Customer Relationship Manager, expressed her gratitude:
“We want to say a huge thank you to AstraZeneca for taking the time to come and see us at both Alex Wood House and Langdon House. There was a lovely atmosphere and lots of chatter while they were with us. The decorations will stay to remind us what a great time was had by all.”
AstraZeneca, the UK’s leading biopharmaceutical company, has a longstanding connection with Cambridge, home to its extensive research and development facilities. Through their Employee Volunteer Team, they’ve fostered meaningful links with both Langdon House and Alex Wood House.
Both homes are already looking forward to welcoming AstraZeneca volunteers back in the future. Plans are in the works for additional companion days in 2025, including collaborative efforts to prepare gardens for the much-anticipated Athena in Bloom event.
As the festive season continues, the generosity and warmth of AstraZeneca’s volunteers have left a lasting impression on the residents and the team at Langdon House and Alex Wood House, embodying the true spirit of Christmas.