To help lift the spirits of local unpaid carers this Christmas, charity Crossroads Care Richmond and Kingston is once again running its Show an Act of Kindness Appeal.

Since 2021, with the support of the community, Crossroads Care has hand-delivered festive hampers to vulnerable, often socially isolated carers who give so much yet often go unseen.

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 those caring around the clock for loved ones with dementia or severe disabilities. For many, there's no time to prepare a Christmas meal and no one to exchange gifts with.

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.

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 said.

"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.

"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."

Michael enjoyed his Christmas hamper last year (Credit: Crossroads Care)

For just £35, dedicated staff and volunteers will hand-deliver a personalised Christmas hamper filled with seasonal treats to unpaid carers in the community.

The goal is to deliver at least 50 hampers, and any additional donations will help fund a special carers' Christmas lunch in December, bringing together socially isolated carers and their loved ones for a festive meal.

You can help make a difference to carers at Christmas by donating to the charity's campaign here.