How the Yorkshire Based Care 24-7 and Redcar AFC Kick Off 25th Anniversary Year with "Gift of Warmth" Donation Built a Powerful Community Partnership

It’s easy to forget just how much a small act of kindness can mean, especially during the long, chilly months. But in Yorkshire, a local homecare provider and a football club have teamed up to show what real community spirit looks like. Care 24-7, a well-known name in local care, is celebrating a massive milestone – its 25th anniversary. And to kick things off, they’ve partnered with Redcar AFC to do something genuinely brilliant for the town's elderly residents. This isn’t just about marking a Silver Jubilee; it’s about making a real difference, tackling winter isolation, and creating new local jobs right here in Redcar. It’s a story about a thoughtful donation, a big expansion, and a whole lot of heart.

A different kind of team talk in Redcar

Forget tactics on a pitch; this was about a game plan to tackle loneliness. As part of its 25th anniversary celebrations, Care 24-7 joined forces with the town’s beloved football club, Redcar AFC, for a special community campaign. The idea was simple but powerful: create and deliver “Gift of Warmth” care packages to elderly residents in Redcar who might not have any family nearby. Think about it – for someone who spends a lot of time alone, a surprise delivery can completely change their day. This initiative was designed to combat the tough feelings of winter isolation that affect so many.

So, what was in these special care packages? The club, Redcar AFC, made a generous donation of official club scarves, comfy woolly hats, and some lovely toiletry sets. It’s not just about the items themselves, though. It’s the message behind them. The delivery of these parcels, personally handed over by the dedicated team from Care 24-7, was a way of saying, “You’re part of this community, and you’re not forgotten.” It was a small gesture with a huge impact, a proper gift of warmth that went far beyond just the cosy scarves. This kind of thoughtful donation shows a deep understanding of what people really need: a connection. This is what exceptional homecare looks like in the UK.

More than just care, it’s about connection

For Care 24-7, this project was a perfect example of their long-standing philosophy of "Wraparound Care." This isn't just a buzzword; it’s about looking at the whole person, not just a list of tasks. For a quarter of a century, their approach to homecare has prioritised emotional well-being right alongside physical health needs. It's about ensuring every person they support feels a sense of dignity and connection. This community campaign highlights the core values that have guided them since 2001.

Danielle Teasdale, the Registered Manager for Care 24-7 in Redcar, explained what motivated the campaign.

"The gifts were provided as part of our Christmas approach, recognising that the festive period is traditionally a time for exchanging gifts, connection and goodwill. We were conscious that some of our clients may be alone at this time and did not want them to feel forgotten or excluded. The intention was to offer a small, thoughtful gesture that reflected care, dignity and human connection, consistent with our values and the ethos of our organisation. Seeing our clients wrapped up in their Redcar AFC scarves this January reminds them that they belong to this town."

Her words really get to the heart of it – it’s about belonging. It’s a powerful reminder for elderly residents that their family isn’t just relatives, but the whole town of Redcar.

A club with a big heart

It’s always fantastic to see a local sports club getting stuck in with the community, and Redcar AFC is a shining example. They didn’t hesitate when Care 24-7 reached out. They understood straight away that their role in the town goes way beyond the ninety minutes on a Saturday afternoon. They see themselves as a family, and their support for the “Gift of Warmth” donation drive proves it. Their contribution of scarves and woolly hats was more than just merchandise; it was a symbol of the club wrapping its arms around the community.

Kev Fryett, the Chairman of Redcar AFC, summed up the club’s spirit perfectly.

"Redcar AFC is more than just a football club; we are a family. When Care 24-7 told us there were people in our town who needed a boost, we wanted to help. We are proud to support the compassionate work Danielle and her team do every day."

This partnership shows how different organisations can share the same values and work together to make a real difference. It’s a collaboration built on a shared commitment to the people of Redcar and a desire to provide support where it’s needed most. The success of this community campaign is a testament to their shared commitment to care.

Looking ahead: a silver jubilee and a big expansion

The 25th anniversary celebrations don’t stop with the care packages. Reaching a Silver Jubilee is a massive achievement, and Care 24-7 is marking the occasion by looking firmly to the future. The provider has announced a significant expansion in the Redcar area. With a rising demand for high-quality, CQC-registered homecare services—from simple companionship to more complex dementia support using their specialised Comfort Plan—the company is opening its books to new clients and their family members in and around the town.

Of course, a major expansion means new opportunities for the community. Alongside accepting new clients, Care 24-7 has launched a major recruitment drive. They are looking for compassionate, dedicated people to join their growing Redcar team, creating brilliant local jobs for people who want a career in care. This expansion is a fantastic boost for the area's economy and for families seeking reliable support. As Danielle Teasdale said,

"Reaching 25 years as a business is a huge achievement, but we are looking forward, not back. We are thrilled to be expanding our Redcar team this year, creating local jobs for people who share our values."

It’s a clear sign that after 25 years of service in Yorkshire, the commitment of Care 24-7 to providing excellent care and supporting the local community is stronger than ever. The recruitment drive signals a new chapter for homecare in the region.