Supporting those in need this lockdown

Pictured: Fundraiser Sally Thomas and daughter Molly (previous)

Mum of four, Sally Thomas, is on a mission to support elderly care residents in Gloucester.

As the country grapples with its third lockdown, many of us have become all too aware of the negative impact that isolation can have on our mental health.

But for elderly care home residents this can be even more significant.

“This has been a difficult time for families up and down the UK,” says Sally. “We may find ourselves feeling a bit low at times, but how lonely must it be for an elderly resident, not being allowed visits from families and loved ones?”

A former occupational therapist, Sally knows the benefits of meaningful occupation and creative activities can be directly linked to improved mental health.

In partnership with Usborne Books, who encourage fundraising for local causes, Sally is aiming to raise £1000 to provide books and activities for residents across four care homes in Gloucester – Saintbridge House, Horton House, Chestnut Residential and Redlands Acre.

Selected items cover everything from magic painting to mindfulness and crosswords to jigsaw puzzles.

Sally has already teamed up with friends and family to try to reach her £1000 fundraising target, and is now looking to local businesses who may be able to support her on her mission.

One of those is local building contractor Speller Metcalfe: “It goes without saying that we all need a bit more support right now, and most of us will know someone or perhaps have a family member who has received residential care,” says Matthew Bailey, Small Works divisional manager at Speller Metcalfe.

“Sally has really hit home with this fantastic cause, and if ever there was a time to support those in our local community, now is the time to do it.”

To help support Sally’s fundraising target, you can donate through her JustGiving page: https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/cheerupfund