Future Directions’ new song captures the spirit of Christmas in such unusual times

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With one eye on the presents and another eye on recent events, Future Directions aims to make Christmas 2020 one to savour.

Their values-driven staff have found unique ways to celebrate Christmas with the people they support in the North of England.

Before the pandemic, their annual Christmas party took place at a single venue in Greater Manchester.

This year’s party will be a virtual one using videoconferencing apps, linking up with each of Future Directions’ houses.

Based in Chadderton, Future Directions CIC is a leading social care provider that supports people with complex care needs such as dementia, autism spectrum conditions and mobility impairments.

As well as supported housing schemes, they offer an outreach service.

Since the first COVID-19 lockdown began in March, putting people first, creativity, adaptability, transparency and going the extra mile took on a new meaning.

By staying safe through social distancing, wearing PPE and embracing new technology.

Part of this year’s celebrations is the creation of a new song.

Entitled 'A 2020 Christmas', it is co-written by Music and Creative Lead Kevin Phoenix and David Young.

Its video has short clips with the people supported by Future Directions.

All of whom are wearing Christmas jumpers, hats and doing Christmassy activities.

Earlier this year, co-writer Kevin Phoenix wrote 'Stronger Together', a song about staying safe during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Prior to the video’s completion, each of the houses that are part of Future Directions submitted 10-second long clips.

This was made possible through smartphones and digital tablets.

Each of the houses were given iPads which are not only for their ten seconds of fame.

They will enable everybody to enjoy the Virtual Christmas Party in the middle of December.

In the long term, it will enable the people they support to entertain themselves, chat with friends and relatives, or learn a new hobby.

Over four minutes, 'A 2020 Christmas' will keep the spirit of Christmas alive.

The video (see below), with the people they support, is the icing on the (Christmas) cake.

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