Restart Scheme
Following the success of last year’s event, the Restart Scheme brought holiday cheer to the Cardiff office once again with its Toy Gifting Day on Monday 16th December. Organised by Partnership Coordinator Daryll Jones, this year's event continued to support participants, offering them a chance to choose and have Christmas presents wrapped for their families at no cost.
The day was made possible thanks to generous toy donations from Serco staff, Case-UK, and Smyth Toys Superstore. This year, we had an impressive total of 600 gifts ready to be wrapped and taken home, ensuring that many families could share in the joy of the season.
Thanks to Smyths Toys Superstore, a significant number of these gifts were sourced directly from their Cardiff store. Our team members had the pleasure of handpicking a variety of toys suitable for children of different age groups.
On the day of the event, volunteers from Case-UK, who offer mental and physical health services across the UK, staffed a special wrapping station. In addition to the gift-giving, we also offered festive snacks and drinks for participants to enjoy as we wrapped their gifts.
This initiative not only helps alleviate the financial burden on those who are out of work but also ensures that the joy of Christmas reaches many children and families in need.
Daryll said: “It’s an absolute pleasure to organise our Christmas toy gifting in Cardiff, the generosity from our own staff, stakeholders and employers is amazing!
Over 600 toys this year is beyond any expectations I had when we began this journey back at the start of November.
It will make such a positive difference to families this Christmas which is why we do it.”
The Cardiff office wasn't alone in spreading festive cheer through the Restart Scheme. On December 11th, the West Bromwich office was transformed into a Winter Wonderland. Santa, portrayed by Job Coach Nathan McKeon, made a special appearance to deliver holiday cheer.
The event was a heartwarming success, bringing smiles to both participants and their children, with more than 80 gifts distributed. Attendees enjoyed hot beverages, seasonal treats, and festive music playing all day, creating a truly memorable celebration for all involved.
