New Directions ho-ho-hosts free Santa workshops

To help its local community during the cost of living crisis, New Directions Group – one of the UK’s leading recruitment and training companies – is inviting people to come along and visit Santa for free to add some festive cheer.

Santa and his elves will be holding 30-minute workshops at the company’s Cardiff headquarters in the run-up to Christmas. Visitors will be able to take part in interactive arts and crafts sessions as well as having that all-important picture with Father Christmas. Children will also be given a small gift to take home and parents can enjoy a free hot drink.

Emily Tune, Chief Executive Officer of New Directions Group, said: “We know Christmas can be an expensive time, especially this year with the increased cost of living. As a company, we pride ourselves on our ‘Giving Back’ programme where we’re continuously looking for ways to support our hardworking staff, valued temporary workforce, and the local community.

“So, what better way to give back this Christmas than to host Santa’s grotto in our office. This way, parents and children can make memories and get into the Christmas spirit without having to worry about the cost.”

The event is completely free but, if you want to help Santa and his elves in his workshop, you need to register for an online ticket on Eventbrite. The immersive workshops are restricted to four children per session and more dates and times are being added to ensure as many families as possible can enjoy a free visit with Mr Claus.

There are currently spaces at various times on December 9, 12, 13, 19, 20, 21. You can also email New Directions using the ‘Contact button’ at the bottom of their Eventbrite webpage to enquire about another date.

Emily added: “We urge those who are interested to not delay in booking. Although spaces are currently limited, we are looking to introduce additional slots so it’s more flexible for families to attend, based on demand. If you’re interested in a day or time that isn’t listed, please get in touch with us.”

This initiative forms part of New Directions’ ‘Giving Back’ corporate social responsibility programme, just one of the benefits offered to their staff, clients and temporary workforces across their community-centric divisions in Education, Social Care and Pharmacy.

New Directions is also inviting residents of Cadwyn Housing Association, a client of the company’s Social Care division, to a series of exclusive sessions.

Louise Dowkes, Wellbeing & Activities Co-ordinator, Cadwyn Housing Association, said: “It was so nice to be approached by New Directions to extend this offer to our residents in supported housing.  Our families are going through a really challenging time and some of the children are very excited to see Santa, it has really perked them up. New Directions have even offered to arrange the transport.”

Keri Evans, Team Manager, New Directions Social Care, added: “We’re thrilled to be able to open Santa’s grotto exclusively to families who are between homes this Christmas.  It’s a great way to show our gratitude to one of our longstanding and respected clients, especially during the season of giving.”

Tickets for general admission to see ND’s Santa’s Grotto can be booked here