Worthing-based social care charity and care home provider Guild Care recently held its own special memorial event for those connected to the homes to remember a loved one from the past year.
After a difficult 18-months for many, the Guild Care team planned a heart-warming afternoon, inviting all those affected by the pandemic including friends, families, staff, trustees and volunteers of Guild Care.
Taking place on 18 September at the English Martyrs Church in Goring, the day was designed to create a safe space to reflect and share memories of past loved ones.
The venue was at capacity with just over 100 people who were treated to refreshments, music, poetic readings and reflections, all led by celebrant Paul Baker, a Guild Care Trustee.
After the Memorial Day, one attendee said: “Thank you very much for the Memorial event to which you kindly invited us. It was a lovely service and brought back many memories. I felt it was a very kind gesture on behalf of Guild Care to think of the relatives and the thought was very much appreciated.
“My late mother used to attend the English Martyrs Catholic Church, so it was very special for me in that respect as well. My late father who was in Guild Care’s Caer Gwent home for 18 months was very well looked after and cared for by the wonderful staff there and I shall never forget their kindness and help during those difficult months.”
Speaking at the event, CEO of Guild Care, Alex Brooks-Johnson said: “We all have our own stories but importantly there’s one thing that unites and binds everyone here, and that is Guild Care.
“Guild Care is a charity built on values. These values help guide us as we provide support to those who need it. The last 18 months has tested us to our limits, but our values have stood firm and importantly our values have enabled us to stand firm.
“To those who matter to us the most; our residents, service users, their families, carers and loved ones - for all you have been through, and continue to go through, we are deeply honoured to go through this with you and hope that, even in some small way, we have made the darkest of times a little bit brighter.
“You are the people who really make Guild Care what it is, what it has been, and importantly what it will continue to be in the future, regardless of what’s round the corner.”
