Spreading Christmas cheer: the ‘Jingle Mingle’ tradition

The idea first came about in 2019, when the scheme was growing and finding its identity. Staff wanted to find creative ways to raise awareness of Shared Lives, while also filling a gap in festive celebrations for people with additional needs.

Many didn’t have access to the kind of Christmas party or ‘works do’ that others take for granted. After talking it over at a peer group meeting, the first Jingle Mingle was launched.

What makes the Jingle Mingle special is its inclusivity. The event isn’t limited to Shared Lives carers and the people they support – it’s open to local authority, charity, and private services, as well as wider community groups.

Pip Fox, Temporary Manager for Shared Lives and Extra Care Housing, explained:

“The key to our Jingle Mingles is that they are completely inclusive and not closed to just our service. We want people from all walks of life, with varying support needs, to be included. Each year the event gets more and more successful.”

Each Jingle Mingle also raises money for a chosen charity, spreading goodwill beyond the party.

Every Jingle Mingle is co-designed with the people supported by Shared Lives. A planning group shares ideas for decorations, entertainment, games and food. Many also volunteer on the day – selling raffle tickets, running games, or helping with prizes.

This collaborative approach ensures the event feels like it belongs to everyone. “Venue is key,” Pip said, “and we always welcome feedback on accessibility, service, and cost.”

Entertainment is central to the Jingle Mingle tradition. The very first event featured a Shared Lives take on Blind Date. Since then, the format has evolved to include crowd favourites like Play Your Cards Right, Name That Tune, and table quizzes that encourage guests to mix.

And of course, there’s always plenty of dancing. Pip remembers last year:

“The dancefloor was full for most of the event – we struggled to get people to stop dancing for their pie and peas! We had a couple of dancing awards and prizes for the best dressed and most festive outfit to hand out and it was very, very difficult to choose the winners!”

“For many, the Jingle Mingle is about more than games and music,” Pip said. “It’s a chance to meet new people and catch up with familiar faces – the kind of event that has people saying: “I hope they’re there this year.”

Pip added: “Often, people we support aren’t in employment or education and can struggle to access social events. The Jingle Mingle gives them the chance to do that – get dressed up, have a few drinks, a dance, and feel part of something.”

This year’s plans include introducing a Santa, adding a photo booth, and trying new team games to encourage guests to mingle.

The atmosphere is always joyful, with smiles, singing, and plenty of festive sparkle. Guests swap Christmas cards, show off glitzy outfits, and share updates since the last event. Or as Pip puts it:

“It’s silly, Christmassy fun for absolutely everyone – pure happiness in a room.”

The Jingle Mingle shows what’s possible when Shared Lives carers, families, and communities come together.

If you’d like to make a difference, why not consider becoming a Shared Lives carer?

Visit startyoursharedlife.today to find out more.