Manager Julie Willington said she wanted everyone to focus on
the good things going on at ExtraCare's smallest retirement
village. "Tonight is about celebrating the achievements of
residents and staff. We want to acknowledge a lot of things from
the last 12 months that need recognition. Not everyone is aware of
what goes on in the background and it is so important."
She thanked her staff, including Claire Irving, who has come up
from Milton Keynes to help at The Rose Garden, and all of those who
have been working in their spare time to study for NVQs and further
qualifications. The housekeeping and kitchen staff were
particularly commended as well, as they have recently done very
well in a resident survey.
Julie also praised residents who had had successes at
ExtraCare's recent Residents in Bloom and Gardens in Bloom
competitions, particularly the gardening club who achieved a silver
medal in the Best Overall category. "Our achievements there put The
Rose Garden well and truly on the map with other, larger,
villages," she said.
Village Activity Facilitator Lynn Mulderrig said she loves
working at the Village: "I feel very proud and privileged to be
part of this vibrant, buzzing community."
After several speeches, staff and residents enjoyed a hog roast
and dancing, with volunteer Ann Thomas, 65, being called up on
stage to demonstrate her moves, and resident Steve Smith impressing
the audience with his wheelchair dancing skills.
Jackie Thomas, who lives at The Rose Garden with her husband,
said the evening was not surprising for the village. "We have a lot
of parties here - I think we're having four over the next few
months. I've had to start buying party dresses since I moved in,
and it's lovely. The staff here are great, very organised, and Lynn
especially keeps it all running smoothly."
Picture: The Rose Garden staff dancing on
stage.
See more pictures on Flickr!
Do you have anything to celebrate? Tell us about it on Facebook!
For further information, please contact:
Lucy Henson, PR officer
0789 105 3062
lucy.henson@extracare.org.uk