1000 Good Deeds in December reminded us that well-being is often built through the simplest things: time, attention, and genuine human connection. We saw residents and colleagues lifting each other up every day, and we saw the wider community respond with the same kindness back. The highlight video captures that spirit beautifully.
South West Care Homes is celebrating the success of its festive wellbeing initiative, “1000 Good Deeds in December”, which saw residents and colleagues across the group come together to deliver hundreds of intentional acts of kindness throughout the month.
Following the group’s very successful “1000 Miles in July” challenge, the December campaign was created to support mental wellbeing through connection, purpose and community spirit. The aim was simple and shared: each home would complete 100 good deeds, adding up to 1,000 acts of kindness across the group.
Across the month, homes embraced the initiative in true South West Care Homes style, knocking it out of the park with thoughtful gestures that made a real difference to everyday life. Good deeds ranged from handwritten letters and surprise visits, to hugs freely given, cakes baked and shared, and community involvement that brought people together at exactly the time of year it matters most.
A good deed is an intentional act of kindness or help performed for another person, often with no expectation of reward. Whether small or significant, the impact is powerful: it can lift someone’s day, reduce feelings of loneliness, and create meaningful moments that support emotional wellbeing.
Importantly, the challenge also created a positive “starting point” for new relationships, friendships and partnerships, both within the South West Care Homes group and beyond it. Existing links, including the Pen Pal initiative between homes, were strengthened, while new connections were sparked with neighbours, local organisations and families.
South West Care Homes plans to continue building on this momentum with future group wide initiatives that promote wellbeing, community connection and meaningful daily experiences for residents, families and staff.