“We are so thankful that we found Brookfields”
2020 has been a difficult year for the people we support and their families. A sudden change in routine and not being able to see your loved ones, as often as you’re used to, can take a toll. Staff have gone the extra mile to ensure the people we support were able to stay connected with their families and friends.
We spoke to Ann, Glen’s sister. Glen is a person we support at Brookfields in the West Midlands. Ann told us about how she and her mom adapted to a new way of communicating with Glen.
Taking necessary precautions
At the beginning of March, before the official lockdown was announced, our services were well prepared. They took the necessary precautions to keep everyone safe. Ann was contacted about this immediately, “Jayne, the Deputy Service Manager, called me to tell me that Brookfields was in lockdown, meaning no visitors. She even mentioned that staff were prepared to sleep at the service and do whatever it takes to keep residents safe.”
Keeping connected during lockdown
Although, visitors were not allowed at the service, Ann and her mum were kept up to date with the what Glen was up to. “Throughout Lockdown we’ve been receiving newsletters letting us know what activities the staff had arranged for our loved ones. We had calls to see how we were doing, and even had flowers and “miss you” cards sent to us from my brother.”
Technology was a key factor in keeping everyone connected. Ann told us that they used Whatsapp to send photos of the fun themed nights the service organised every Friday. “All the staff take the time to get dressed up, I have photos sent to me on Whatsapp – always lovely to see!”
Socially distanced catch up’s
When restrictions eased in the summer, the service organised a socially distanced visit for Ann and her mom to see Glen. “When we arrived, we were met with a welcome back banner strung up on the fence. We were given PPE to wear to keep everyone safe. We met up with Glen in the garden, had lunch and were given a box of homemade cupcakes! Everyone was wearing Hawaiian themed outfits and looked splendid.” Ann said.
“It’s been, and still is, a difficult time for everyone as we can’t visit and have a cuppa around the kitchen table like we used to.” Ann told us. “However, just recently, Jayne has gone the extra mile and brought Glen to Cannock, where we had a socially distanced walk around and had lunch outside. My mom really enjoyed it, and Glen was giving thumbs up to people as we passed, so I think it’s fair to say that he enjoyed the visit too!”
Thankful for Brookfields
Ann expressed how grateful she was, “We can rest assured that Glen and others at Brookfields are having their every need met by a very dedicated team. My mom always says that she is so thankful that we found Brookfields, and so am I.”
We’re keeping you safe at Voyage Care
Please note: This article is about events that happened during the COVID-19 pandemic and reflects the safety measures based on government advice during that specific time period. Please be assured that at all times, Voyage Care follows the appropriate COVID-19 safety measures to keep our staff and the people we support safe. To find out more about our COVID-19 safety precautions, please visit our COVID-19 resource area.