Carers' support group launch

Date of article: 01-Feb-12

Champagne Cocktails, a tantalising buffet spread, birthday cake and harpist in place all set the scene for the First Anniversary Party held at Cherry Blossom Manor on 12th January 2012. The Mayor of Basingstoke and Deane, Cllr David Leeks, joined residents, their families, local community members and healthcare professionals in celebrating this momentous event in style. Cherry Blossom Manor held its official VIP opening a year ago to the day of the anniversary celebrations and one year on, the home has gone from strength to strength. It provides an exceptional warm, homely and inviting environment for residents and guests to the home and with thanks to the dedicated team, the home itself still looks as immaculate as the day it first opened its doors.

Jean Thomas, the earliest resident to the home was tickled pink when given the honour of cutting the cake and said 'There was an excellent display of food, the chef worked really hard and I was so pleased to cut the cake'

The anniversary party saw the launch of the Carers' Support Group, an initiative the home has developed in conjunction with Carers Together and the Alzheimer's Society. The Carers' Support Group is for family members of residents in the home and all members of the community involved in the care for someone else, be they a family member or friend. This enables carers to have somewhere local they can go either just for a coffee and chat or for guidance and support in the everyday challenges they face in their role as a carer. Carers can either bring their family members with them or are welcome to come alone so it can ensure the service is available to everyone who needs it. The Carers Support Group will be held the second Thursday of every month, from 2.00pm till 4.00pm and Support Workers from Carers Together and Alzheimer's Society will be available to speak to.

Geraint Williams, the General Manager at Cherry Blossom Manor thanked the dedicated team at the home in his welcome speech and said 'The First Anniversary celebrations were a tremendous success, it was great to see residents, families and visitors all coming together and enjoying the party and being able to get a feel for themselves what a positive home environment Cherry Blossom Manor is for those who have chosen to live here. We are looking forward to exciting year ahead with many more fun events and activities.'

In his speech to the party guests, the Mayor thanked the home for providing this valuable service to the community as he appreciated the importance of it to carers of family members. The Mayor was delighted to be able to join the party guests in joyous celebrations and the launch.

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