City of York Council have challenged staff at care homes and sheltered housing schemes to come up with innovative ways of helping residents and tenants to enjoy the summer weather, whether it’s by organising an outdoor picnic, garden fete or visit.
Haxby Hall decided to run a midsummer tea party and volunteers from local employers were drafted in through employee-volunteering charity York Cares, to help with the preparations, decorating and the party itself.
Jayne Barker, Manager at Haxby Hall said: “We wanted to give the residents a midsummer garden party but our garden needed a bit of TLC first! It was great to have some help from volunteers from First York and Nestlé who spent a day painting our furniture.”
Lisa Adams, from Nestlé UK said: “The team really enjoyed the challenge and took real pride in developing new skills, knowing it would help bring some life into the summer party.”
Another team of volunteers from Aviva attended the party on Tuesday, June 21, to provide a helping hand and chat to residents through the afternoon.
Sophie Johnson from Aviva said: “It was lovely to spend some time with the residents and help them to get out and enjoy the good weather.
“We all work in an office and it’s really rewarding to spend a couple of hours getting outside and sharing stories and experiences with local people.”
City of York Council will reward the most exciting event with a £100 prize for the home, residents and tenants to spend on a special outing – with judges including the Rt Hon Lord Mayor, Councillor Dave Taylor, and the Lady Mayoress.
“Holding celebrations which invite the local community to join in and enjoy the open air with our tenants are so important,” said council leader Cllr David Carr.
“It’s great to see this idea taking off!”
York Cares is aiming to encourage 10 companies to join the organisation during its 10th anniversary year. For more information on York Cares and how to get involved visit the website.