Residents of Richmond care home show off their winter warmers as part of day of celebrations
Residents at a care home in Barnes, Richmond took to the catwalk for a winter warmth fashion show as part of a special day showcasing the joy of caring.
Donning scarfs, hats, gloves and coats, they paraded in front of delighted staff, family members, friends, community figures and fellow residents.
The multi-generational event took place at Viera Gray House on the afternoon of Saturday, January 25, and included a tea and coffee morning and buffet lunch. Later in the day there was musical entertainment from Harry Kersley’s, Old World Melodies.
Residents who took part included Marie-Louise Verroest, 86, she said: “It was a very good day for all of us. It was entertaining to get dressed up, it brought a lot of joy and happiness.”
James Johnson, 77, who also participated, said: “I enjoyed walking around in my winter warmers but I loved the food the most, especially the strawberry cake. It was a great day, I had fun."
In attendance on the day were representatives from local community groups and charities including St Mary’s Church and Gail’s Bakery also donated goodies for everyone to enjoy.
Led and hosted by the leading not-for-profit care home in Richmond, which is run by Greensleeves Care, the special day was part of 'Big Warm Up' – a nationwide initiative by the group to showcase the warmth and joy of caregiving.
It came as new figures show that nearly one in two adults in England (47 per cent) increase the assistance they give older relatives during winter. The survey by Greensleeves Care also showed that many people feel unprepared when it comes to care, citing having enough information and agreement from family members as key factors in decision-making. Around a quarter (26%) report having had to make a difficult care decision at a point of crisis.
Viera Gray House Manager, Shubhes Shrestha said: “Our Big Warm Up event was a fun-packed day full of joy and a real sense of community. Everyone enjoyed themselves and it was a true celebration of caring and the power of togetherness.
“The start of a new year is the perfect opportunity for reflection and planning. For many, this may involve thinking about the additional care and support we or an older loved one might need in the coming months.
“Along with having great fun, events like Big Warm Up give people a chance to experience our warm and welcoming home, see our facilities first hand, and get what they need to make well-informed, family-oriented decisions - without the pressure of urgency.”
If you’d like more tips and advice on how to help older adults stay warm and well this winter and help accessing care, you can explore free resources at www.greensleeves.org.uk/WarmthOfCare or contact the home to arrange a visit.