Wiltshire care home host charity coffee afternoon to help raise almost £400 for life-limiting illnesA Wiltshire care home has helped raise almost £400 for Dorothy House hospice to support individuals with life-limiting illnesses across the southwest. 

Staff at HC-One’s Market Lavington Care Home, located on High Street, Devizes in Wiltshire, held a fundraising coffee afternoon earlier this month for Dorothy House hospice –  a charity that offers free care to adults with life-limiting illnesses and their families across Bath and North East Somerset, and parts of Wiltshire and Somerset. 

The care home’s colleagues, residents, and relatives and friends of residents all took part in the coffee afternoon. Tea, coffee and a wide range of homemade cakes and scones were offered along with sparkling wine and a selection of cheese and biscuits.

A raffle was also held, with prizes kindly donated by members of the community as well as staff and relatives. Sought-after items included bottles of wine, boxes of chocolates, and vouchers from local businesses such as The Three Daggers in Eddington, R. Douse Butchers in Market Lavington, Superior Plants, The Bell at Great Cheverell, Ammi Florists, Blossom Tree Florists, Wagamama's, Superior Plants, Morrisons, and Whitehall Garden centre in Woodborough.

Popular local entertainer Julie Hunt also performed, which saw residents and visitors get up to dance along to the music. The afternoon was a huge success, with over £380 being raised for Dorothy House.

Hazel Hobbs, wife of resident Ronald Hobbs, said:

“It was such a lovely coffee afternoon, with everyone singing and the entertainment was enjoyed by all! We hope to have more get togethers soon, it certainly lifts the spirits of residents, visitors, and staff.” 

Janice Reed, resident at Market Lavington care home, said: 

“I loved everything about the afternoon, everybody was so nice, very chatty and I even got to get up and dance which I haven't done for ages. The cakes were also beautifully made”. 

Jasmine Simmonds, Deputy Manager at Market Lavington care home, said:

“It was such a special day for the staff and residents and was filled with happiness and laughter. My favourite moment was looking around the room and seeing so many happy faces.”

Jenny Eyles, Head Housekeeper at Market Lavington care home, said:

“It was an amazing and emotional afternoon. My highlight was watching everyone up dancing and laughing.”

HC-One’s Market Lavington Care Home has a passion for end-of-life care and, with the support of Dorothy House, the care home can ensure its residents are receiving the best quality of life, regardless of their personal situation.