Spellman Care, a family-run group of nursing and residential homes, has marked a significant milestone this month, concluding its fifth annual Christmas Appeal. The 2025 initiative culminated in a festive delivery of presents aboard the group’s popular minibus, bringing a season of hope to local children.
Reflecting Spellman Care’s core values of Kindness, Dignity, and Compassion, the appeal has become a cornerstone of the group’s commitment to the community. For half a decade, the homes have acted as hubs of generosity, but this year reached new heights of engagement.
In a first for the group, Spellman Care invited the local community to vote for the beneficiary of this year’s collection. With a significant 36-point lead, ‘The Secret Santa Appeal’ was chosen as the winning cause, following a shortlist that included the Memory Lane Trust CIC, The Fairy Giftmother (Airedale Hospital), Skipton Food Bank, and Family Action.
Collection points were established across all four Spellman Care homes: Craven Nursing Home (Skipton), Ghyll Royd Care Home (Guiseley), Springbank Care Home (Silsden), and Steeton Court Nursing Home (Steeton).
The response was staggering. A vast and vibrant variety of gifts were donated by residents, their relatives, staff, and the wider public. The collection included everything from Hot Wheels cars, dolls, and teddy bears to board games, cosmetics, and LEGO, ensuring that children aged 0-16 will have a gift to open this Christmas.
Philippa Young, Operations Manager at Spellman Care, said:
“Reaching the fifth year of our Christmas Appeal is a proud moment for the entire Spellman Care family. Year on year, we are moved by the staggering generosity of our community, but 2025 has truly been exceptional. Our core values of kindness and compassion extend far beyond the walls of our homes, and seeing the sheer volume of donations—from traditional board games to the latest toys—is a testament to the professional and caring spirit that defines our staff and residents alike.
When we arrived at the Secret Santa Appeal’s drop-off point in Bradford, we were humbled by the collective effort of the region. It is deeply heartening to see such community spirit at a time of year that can be so challenging for many families. We would like to extend our sincerest thanks to everyone who contributed.”
This Christmas success builds on a long-standing legacy of support for organisations such as Homeless Not Hopeless, The Salvation Army, and the Airedale Hospital and Community Charity. However, Spellman Care’s dedication to supporting the community continues year-round. Beyond the festive season, the group organised numerous smaller collections and fundraisers throughout 2025, including support for the Love Grace Appeal and raising vital funds for Manorlands Hospice during two of their annual Summer Fetes.
As a group deeply rooted in the local community for over 35 years, Spellman Care is always looking for new ways to offer support. Local charities or community groups looking for assistance with their own appeals are encouraged to contact the team at hello@spellmancare.co.uk with further details.
