Residents at a care home might be having to live in isolation – but they’re still finding ways to keep in touch with the community.
Since the lockdown started, the residents at Ferrol Lodge care home in Sale have received Easter cards, letters and pictures from people, while staff have been nominated for a BBC everyday heroes award.
Children at St Anne’s Primary School have written to the residents, as has a 13-year-old boy called Ben checking that the residents are fine and letting them know that people are thinking of them. Cards – including Easter cards – have also been received, including one from a man who just wanted to wish the people at Ferrol Lodge all the best, and one from a local woman wanting to be pen pals. In return, residents have responded with cards and letters of their own to keep up the correspondence.
As well as cards and letters, the care home has also received protective equipment from the community. Stuart Peet, an engineering teacher at Ashton on Mersey High School, has made face visors for staff at the home to keep them safe during the lockdown.
Stacey Armstrong, registered manager at the care home, said:
We have been overwhelmed by the kindness shown by the community to our residents. It is very tough because the residents can’t have any visitors so the letters, pictures and cards make such a difference and really brighten up our day.
The staff have also been brilliant in keeping up spirits and it was wonderful that their work has been recognised through the award nomination.”
Jo Harding, Trafford Council Executive Member for Adult Services, said:
Our care homes and staff do amazing work day after day, making sure residents receive the care and attention they deserve.
During the lockdown, their compassion and dedication has impressed everyone and we can’t thank them enough for what they are doing for the elderly residents in our communities.”
Posted on Thursday 30th April 2020