The last twelve months, despite the lessening of the intensity of the pandemic, has remained a difficult time for many people both within our organisation and across the country.
As we head towards 2023, we are celebrating a Christmas without restriction, although within our elderly care homes we are still ever vigilant in relation to Covid and the range of other infections that are particularly virulent this year. We can take comfort in the fact that both Bunkers Hill and The Valleys have fantastic staff teams who remain totally dedicated and committed to their residents’ wellbeing, as they have always been. Their fortitude and community spirit are terrific, and I would like to thank all of them for the work they do, looking after our residents every day and delivering kindness and support in equal measure.
This spirit of togetherness can also be seen in Oakwood Community School and across our Children’s homes that deliver such important care to vulnerable young people in our communities. They face a range of challenges, on a daily basis, and have shown, throughout the year, how dedicated they are to improving the lives of the young people they help and support. It is a privilege to be involved in the development and care of young people and we are fortunate to have both committed and professional staff teams undertaking that task.
As always, I think it is right to say a particular Happy Christmas and thank you to all the families of both the people we support and the staff we employ. Without their appreciation, generosity, and sometimes patience, our job would be so much harder. They have been wonderfully understanding through the last three years, and there is no doubt that this has helped us to deliver great care.
I am sure that everyone of us who work in our homes and our school, would like to take this opportunity to thank you – the families – for helping them to do what they do so well.
I hope that whether you are a person we support, a member of staff, or a family member or friend that you have the very best Christmas possible and stay safe and healthy into what we all hope will be a happy New Year.
Best wishes – Mandy Cheriton-Metcalfe, Managing Director.