Care home appreciates local volunteers from Age Concern

Whilst out and about one of the Denmead Grange staff learnt about the amazing work of the hardworking volunteer team at Age Concern in Cowplain.

Working in the Borrow Centre, managed by Julie Turner, they learned that, in particular, a lunch club supporting up to 40 service users each time, runs three times a week. For £6 individuals can have a two-course freshly prepared meal, served with a smile.

Knowing the value of appreciation, Denmead Grange wondered what Age Concern does with their team of more than 30 volunteers and wondered if they may be able to help.

So, rather than their normal annual gathering with a ‘tray of sandwiches and clearing up ourselves’, the invitation to come for a ‘slap up tea’ was made and accepted.

Denmead Grange Head Chef Craig loves nothing more than a beautiful afternoon tea and he outdid himself; a delectable array of homemade mouth-watering delights were most thoroughly enjoyed.

Residents at Denmead Grange have made each volunteer a long-lasting bunch of paper flowers to take away, they went down very well too.

With volunteering, like with staffing, when you feel seen, heard, appreciated and valued, you are more likely to stay. Denmead Grange had the pleasure of meeting the wide range of Age Concern volunteers, the eldest of whom was 99!

They would like to hope that their appreciation may help support the ongoing essential work of this brilliant local organisation.

Some of the 25 volunteers who came wanted a little closer look at Denmead Grange and a show around was arranged, others enjoyed just being waited on, for a change. For Denmead Grange it was an important opportunity to Thank those who give their time to help alleviate loneliness, to assist older people to maintain their independence, to promote wellbeing.

These are clearly shared values and Denmead Grange looks forward to building and strengthening those ties.

Abbie Johnston, General Manager of Denmead Grange commented: “We want to thank those in our community who help as volunteers supporting older people and who share our values. We had the great pleasure of sharing a lovely afternoon with the Age Concern volunteers."

Denmead Grange care home is run by Barchester Healthcare, one of the UK’s largest care providers, which is committed to delivering personalised care across its care homes and hospitals. Denmead Grange provides residential and dementia care for 60 residents from respite care to long term stays.