Louth care home goes green to raise awareness of mental health challenges
A care team in Louth has put a spotlight on mental health and older people by hosting a green-themed event at their home, attended by the mayor.
Mayor Cllr Darren Hobson joined staff and residents at Madeira House Care Home in Louth, who opened their doors to offer friendship, warmth and support to the community.
Home Manager Julie Esprit invited the Mayor and his wife, Mayoress Sarah-Jane Hobson, to join them to encourage people to have open conversations about their mental health struggles.
The theme was ‘Wear It Green’, which is both the colour of ‘Mental Health Awareness Week’ and the ‘Good’ rating recently given to the Advinia Healthcare home by the Care Quality Commission.
Julie said: “It was fantastic to welcome members of the Louth community and the Mayor and Mayoress to join us to help raise awareness for mental health.
“Our message at Madeira House is, ‘No one is alone’, and we wanted to let our residents, their loved ones and local people know that we are always available to support them.
“Kindness and conversation can make a huge difference to people who are struggling with their mental health, and we want to encourage anyone needing help to speak up.”
During the event, live music was provided courtesy of Nikki and Raine, who delighted residents with their performance.
Staff, who all donned green outfits as part of the festivities, also competed in a ‘Best Dressed’ competition, which was won by housekeeping Cheryl Tolerton.
Julie added: “I’m so grateful to my team for all their hard work in bringing this event together.
“We wanted to celebrate our ‘Good’ CQC rating but also do something that benefits others in our community, so we chose to do an event linked to ‘Mental Health Awareness Week’.
“The team at Madeira House is as committed to supporting the residents with their emotional well-being as well as their physical health, knowing how important both are.
“That’s why we’re here if anybody in the local area needs our support.”