Care home families meet after months apart

Gracewell of Frome recently hosted a walk-by visit event for residents and their families. The team at the care home carefully planned the visit so everyone involved could maintain a safe social distance and comply with government guidelines.

 The team at Gracewell of Frome have ensured all families have contacted their loved ones, using video calls, phones and email. However, this was the first time since March that the residents were able to see their families in person.

Throughout the day, small groups of residents were seated in the garden area and families were able to walk past via the river path and chat to residents through a railing – at a safe distance.  The home served a delicious cream tea for all to enjoy.

 Anne Wood, daughter of resident John Palmer said, “It has been really difficult not being able to see dad face-to-face. It’s been testing times. It was lovely to see him at this event. The team did a grand job – social distancing was perfectly organised. I came down from Bristol and got to see my Dad for 45 minutes.”

Jemma Griffiths, general manager at Gracewell of Frome said, “Everyone had a fantastic day. One resident told us: ‘I simply don’t know what to say I am lost for words.’ The planning really paid off – and the torrential rail didn’t dampen any spirits. We were just so pleased that we could put on such an event.”

 For more information about Gracewell of Frome, visit www.gracewellfrome.co.uk.