On Sunday 5 September, Gracewell of Frome care home walked 5km before holding a Making a Difference Awards party for residents, relatives, and team members.
Seven members of the Gracewell of Frome team took part in the full 5km walk, with additional residents and team members joining for the final kilometre. The journey was made as part of The Alzheimer’s Memory Walk initiative, raising a total of £340 for the charity.
Following the walk, residents, team members, and their families were invited to celebrate the Making a Difference Awards party. The 40 attendees were treated to Pimm’s and afternoon tea, as team members nominated their colleagues for awards. Categories included Best Day Carer, Night Carer, and Nurse and Ancillary Carer. Each winner received a glass award and a framed certificate.
Mary, a relative of a resident at Gracewell of Frome, said: “The atmosphere was super and the recognition of the events of the last year for all of us felt quite moving. It was a party that reflected the warmth and kindness of Gracewell of Frome itself, and all served up with a large dollop of light heartedness. I also thoroughly enjoyed witnessing the Awards Ceremony. It is great to see the staff who look after our loved ones rewarded for their hard work.”
The event also remembered and celebrated the lives of those residents who Gracewell of Frome have lost over the last 18 months. The families of those residents were invited, and a special memorial tree was unveiled in their memories.
Jemma Griffiths, General Manager of Gracewell of Frome, said: “The Alzheimer’s Society’s Memory Walk and Making a Difference Awards were the first time we were able to gather together as a home and reflect on the last 18 months. The COVID-19 pandemic has been difficult for all, and the opportunity to re-unite and reflect was a unique one that residents, our team and family members enjoyed.
“We were also able to welcome back family members who’s loved ones have passed away, to share memories and gift the memorial tree. It was a lovely afternoon and a great way to thank our residents for all they have done, their relatives for their support, and our team members for their tireless hard work.”
Supporters are still able to contribute to Gracewell of Frome’s fundraising efforts by visiting their JustGiving pagehere.
