Christmas Party - 22nd December

.The Cocoon was very grateful to receive donations from Lush (bath bombs & cosmetics), Homebase (Christmas Tree & decorations) and John Lewis (£1500 to buy presents & food for festive celebrations). Staff from Havering Council generously donated items to be gifted to young people and My Place donated a wonderful hamper of food, gifts and toiletries. This event was another fun filled Cocoon party for young people, their families and staff. Due to the wonderful donations, we were able to offer presents to all young people, and create food hampers for those who needed additional supplies over the festive period. It was a lovely afternoon with everyone dancing to music and singing Christmas songs; and spreading some festive cheer.

The Cocoon was open on Christmas Day. All care leavers were aware of the opening and given an opportunity to consider how they were planning to spend Christmas day. As a service we acknowledged that some of our young people and young adults do not have family, or the social networks to support them over the festive period. We do not want anyone to have a lonely or sad Christmas.

Eight young people came to the Cocoon on Christmas day and were served a three course meal, including a traditional roast dinner and lots of yummy deserts. It was a lovely afternoon, filled with lots of laughter as well as all young people receiving Christmas presents. There was even enough food for everyone to take left overs home! On Christmas Eve and Christmas Day two people volunteered to help prepare the food and decorations with staff. One was a care leaver and the other a Youth Support Worker, Ricco. They were a great help! And the Head of Service turned up on Christmas day and did the washing up, much to the appreciation of the young adults. Big shout out to a member of the public who donated a brand new bicycle to a care leaver and has transformed a life, allowing the care leavers easier movement to college and the Cocoon. This was the happiest festive present for this young man who was in tears of appreciation for this gift.