Hampton House residents and staff celebrated at special awards ceremony
Hampton House in Solihull held a special awards ceremony on 26th November to thank the residents, members of staff and volunteers who help to create the unique, homely atmosphere and friendly spirit at the independent living complex.
34 residents, eight members of Hampton House staff, 13 from Advanced Healthcare (who provide care services for the residents) and a volunteer were recognised at the event for the roles that they play, with each one receiving a personalised certificate.
Special guest, singer-songwriter Gemma Nelson, who has written for and sung with multiple chart-topping acts and recently completed a tour on Broadway, helped to present the awards, and treated everyone to a few songs in between the presentations. Homemade cakes were also served.

Activities coordinator, Sarah Allen, said that she came up with the idea for the event to acknowledge the many individuals “who bring a little something to the house, making it what it is.”
Among the residents who were recognised was Richard Bunce, whom Sarah described as, “one of the kindest individuals you could ever meet.
“He always lends a hand,” she added. “He is very funny, very intelligent, and he really boosts everyone’s mood.”
Richard commented, “The awards event was amazing! We all really enjoyed the positive atmosphere, the laughter and sharing all the reasons why each person is special to Hampton House.
“Everybody here, from staff to residents, are all special in their own way, and us all coming together to recognise that was really uplifting.”
Pauline Hunt, another resident, was recognised for her kind, caring nature, and her efforts to ensure that nobody misses the wide array of activities, events and entertainment that Sarah and her colleagues organise.
Fellow resident, Eddie Dinshaw, also received a certificate, for the “inspiring plethora of stories” he relates about his life to entertain his fellow residents, staff and visitors.
Of the members of staff who were presented with awards, special acclaim was given to those starting out in their careers but who have already made a considerable difference to the residents’ lives.
17-year-old General Assistant, Kaila Carolan, was described by Sarah as “a credit to her generation,” who “always has a smile to offer everyone and cares deeply about the residents.” She regularly receives compliments for her politeness and the hard work she puts in.

Another young general assistant, Jacob Wright, was also rewarded his contribution to the house, often coming in on his days off to help with events and ensure the residents have a good time.
Volunteer Carole Page was also recognised at the ceremony, and is part of a tradition of volunteering at Abbeyfield that dates back to its foundation in 1956.
Sarah said, “Carole continues to grace Hampton House with her presence, and I wanted to thank her for hosting the weekly coffee morning and quiz.
She continued, “Carole’s mom was a resident at Hampton house and passed away earlier this year, but she still continues to run the coffee morning and the residents absolutely love it.”
Following a special request by several people, one of the resident’s dogs, Boo, was also included in the ceremony for the ways he improves the residents’ mood.
“He is so well behaved and absolutely adorable,” said Sarah, “and the room lights up when he strolls through for his walk.”
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