Epsom care home flies the flag for Pride

A colourful and lively celebration was held at a care home in Epsom to mark LGBTQ+ Pride.

Residents at Care UK’s Appleby House, on Longmead Road, decked out the home in Pride flags and brought out the rainbow hats to welcome international singer and comedian Terry Gleed for an afternoon of glamour, humour and music.

 

Accompanying the live entertainment, the home had a range of activities for residents to enjoy including singing and dancing, which all promoted the message of inclusivity.

Resident Rosemary Dovey got on the microphone to sing her signature rendition of Gloria Gaynor’s I Am What I Am, which had everyone joining in.

The 90-year-old said: “Everyone is unique and it should be celebrated no matter who you are – as long as you are kind.”

There was also a special visit from the Mayor of Epsom and Ewell, Robert Leach, who gave a memorable speech to mark the occasion.

All team members at Appleby House have taken part in equality and diversity training as part of the home’s dedication to creating an open and warm environment. This is supported by Care UK’s LGBTQ+ Network, which provides training and guidance to team members on related issues, as well as developing an open culture in every care home.

Shona Bradbury, Home Manager at Appleby House, said: “We had a fantastic time celebrating Pride and flying the rainbow flag.

“We’re committed to ensuring the home is a welcoming and supportive place for everyone, which is why we were delighted to show our support for the LGBTQ+ community in our own special and colourful way.  

“Pride month has a wonderful ability of bringing people together and we are so happy to see everyone enjoy the big celebration – it was great to see everyone getting involved and laughing and singing. I’d like to say a massive thank you to Terry Gleed for entertaining us all!”

Designed to enable residents to live active and fulfilled lives, while also promoting independence, Appleby House incorporates plenty of space for leisure activities and hobbies – offering its own allotment, art studio, shop, hair salon and The Core Gallery. The home provides full-time dementia care and respite care, as well as a day centre.