While Christmas is a time of joy and celebration for many, for countless unpaid carers, it can be one of the most isolating and emotionally difficult times of the year.

There is no festive break for carers who continue their round-the-clock responsibilities, caring for loved ones with complex conditions such as dementia, brain injuries, or severe disabilities. For many, there’s no time to prepare a special Christmas meal and no one to exchange gifts with.

Despite his ailing health, Michael, 88, looks after his 87-year-old wife, Eileen, who is living with dementia, so he knows all too well how lonely Christmas can be for carers.

“You can feel so alone as a carer, but the Crossroads Care staff, and all that they do for me, remind me that I’m not forgotten,” he says.

“Last year’s Christmas hamper was lovely and really cheered us both up. I appreciate every bit of contact I have with Crossroads — they are the most wonderful organisation. We were lucky enough to go along to the Christmas lunch also and it was such a great event.

“Through Crossroads, we’ve met the kindest, most caring people — not just the staff, but other people who are in the same position as me — caring for a loved-one.

“Crossroads is such an important part of my life as it is for so many other carers. My weekly visit from care support worker Diana is the highlight of my week.”

Caring takes a heavy toll — not just physically, but mentally and emotionally too. Around 70% of unpaid carers report a serious lack of social interaction, and nearly half struggle financially. Many say they live on the edge of burnout, especially during the festive period.

That’s why, this Christmas, Crossroads Care is once again launching its Show an Act of Kindness Appeal, now in its fifth year.

For just £35, our dedicated team of staff and volunteers will hand-deliver a personalised Christmas hamper filled with seasonal treats and essential food items to unpaid carers in the community. Our goal is to deliver at least 50 hampers, and any additional donations will go towards hosting a special Carers’ Christmas Lunch in December, bringing together socially isolated carers and their loved-ones for a festive meal.

What Unpaid Carers Say About Crossroads Care

“The hardest thing about caring for someone with dementia is that you're not only coping with your own sense of loss—you’re managing the grief of the person you love. Some days, the pain is so intense it feels physical. But Crossroads is always there, and I’m so grateful.”

“Without Crossroads, I’d be completely housebound. My wife has Alzheimer’s and needs constant care. She often won’t leave the house, so when Crossroads staff arrive, it’s like a weight is lifted. I can share the responsibility with someone who’s capable, kind, and truly understands.”