The 17th of December was a special day for the Highgate community. GEM – Camden Council’s main mechanical and electrical contractor – teamed up with Highgate Newtown Community Partners to put on a three-course Christmas dinner for the community.

Tables were neatly laid with Christmas treats and GEM goodie bags for each person, and each resident enjoyed a starter, followed by a main with all the trimmings and finishing with a delicious dessert. Laughter and happiness were at the forefront of the event, with live music, entertainment and raffle prizes for all to enjoy.

Natasha Sterling Resident Liaison Officer at GEM stated,
“We were so moved by new Highgate Newtown Community partner and what they are doing for the elderly residents. It was a pleasure to be part of such a fun day and seeing residents enjoying the festive season with their friends whilst having the opportunity to meet new residents within the community. Christmas can be a lonely time for some, the Christmas dinner was a remarkable highlight for the season”.

By working with Highgate Newtown Community Partners, GEM helps make a difference to the lives of older people living alone, not just during the Christmas season, but for the rest of the year too. Gathering residents of the Highgate community together for events like the Christmas Dinner helps foster a strong sense of diversity, and GEM looks forward to rolling out more inclusive events throughout 2022.

“We wanted to do our bit to make a difference and help a local charity provide good memories over the festive season to the residents. Some people may feel lonely at Christmas since Christmas is portrayed as being about families coming together and we wanted to bring the elderly together to enjoy Christmas”. Keith Harris Director