Acts Of Kindness Strengthen Community Links

In this unsettling time of social distancing and lockdown, we have been overwhelmed by the way the local community has reached out with unwavering kindness and generosity.

Our much-cherished residents here at Bridge House have received so many cards from local children and relatives alike to let them know that, even though they are apart, they are not alone. We were also surprised to receive a letter of support from local Mayor and Lord Lieutenant, Tim Stevenson, the Queen’s representative for Oxfordshire! This was followed up by a very special postcard from none other than Buckingham Palace, which caused much excitement at Bridge House, we can tell you! To complete our Royal Flush, Blenheim Palace then sent every resident and team member a chocolate Easter Bunny!

In addition to these unexpected deliveries, we have been overwhelmed by the generosity of donations from friends and local businesses who have surprised us with all manner of delights for both our carers and residents to enjoy. There were cosmetic treats from Avon, bouquets of flowers Waitrose Abingdon and photos from local photographer Martin Wackenier of Devine Times photography! We were even sent a delicious Indian lunch delivered to the home courtesy of BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Temple UK, Neasden & Abingdon Pariwar.

It has been these gestures, from local friends and companies alike, that have truly touched us; the effort the community has gone to, to stay connected and let our residents know they are still a much-loved part of this neighbourhood has strengthened our community bond even tighter than ever.

And we were all overjoyed when our very own central office sent over treats for our carers and resident to enjoy; one day it was an ice cream van, the next it was a surprise batch of lollipops and snow cones! Such simple gestures to let us know we are, as ever, in their hearts and minds – they were greatly appreciated and went down a treat!