Welcoming back visitors and volunteers

As lockdown has lifted we’ve been blessed by the return of the special visitors who enrich life at our homes and schemes

At Pilgrim Gardens, Leicester, spirits have been lifted thanks to the return of one musically-talented visitor. Alison is a good friend of one of the residents living at Pilgrim Gardens. Every Thursday night before lockdown Alison used to stay with her friend Pat so that she could play the piano every Friday. Now that restrictions have lifted, Alison has been able to stay with Pat again, allowing her to bless everyone with her piano-playing.

Pilgrim Gardens have also been able to re-commence collective devotions times, welcoming in Reverend Stephen Taylor to share the Word. Mandy Smith, Scheme Manager at Pilgrim Gardens says, “Although we have to socially distance still and cannot sing aloud, we are grateful for the time together in the presence of God.”

These bright and colourful origami flowers reflect the cheerful mood at Evington Home, just next-door to Pilgrim Gardens. The home was delighted to welcome back Diane, who has been a volunteer at Evington for many years. During lockdown she has been doing Skype devotions bi-weekly. She is now able to come in regularly to lead devotions and run or help with activities. She has also become part of the testing programme, helping one day each week.

As well as welcoming back our volunteers, we're delighted to be making possible more visits from family and friends. For all the latest guidance, take a look at our Coronavirus hub, which features information on visits to care homes, and visits out of care homes.