Radius St Helena's has celebrated its residents and their special talents as it marked the start of a new year.
As 2025 began, Radius St Helena’s in Christchurch embraced the opportunity to start with a sense of gratitude. During their New Year party, staff and residents came together to celebrate the achievements of those living at the care home. For the first time, residents were given special awards encouraging participation and fostering a sense of pride within the community.
“I just had a thought of doing these awards as an encouragement to our residents to continue participating in our daily activities, as this had never been done before,” said Maggie Grey, Activities Coordinator.
“I went around talking to staff and asking for their opinion on which resident should be awarded as I had a few titles in mind.”
The Most Determined Resident award went to Esme Adams-Trott, who showed incredible resilience throughout the year.
“Esme was quite ill at the beginning of last year and had given up all hope. But with the staff’s encouragement, she made a complete turnaround,” Grey explained.
Adams-Trott started participating in daily activities, talking to other residents, and, most of all, she was very determined to get back on her feet and start walking again.
“She put in a lot of hard work, and her determination won her that award.”
Yvonne Maynard earned the Most Artistic Resident title, thanks to her love for colouring.
“Yvonne is always colouring in beautiful pictures in her colouring book. She is always focused on her artwork and takes time out for it,” Grey said.
Most Helpful Resident was awarded to Barbara Wykes, recognised for the many small acts of kindness she does around the care home. Whether helping the kitchen staff fold serviettes, distributing bingo cards and chips to other residents, or buttering bread for sausage sizzles, Grey said she is always there to lend a hand.
“There are so many other little things she does that bring joy to the residents.”
Finally, the Most Grateful Resident award went to Collin McKenzie, whose gratitude uplifts everyone around him.
“Collin is always thanking the staff and residents for any little help that he receives."
In addition to these categories, there were a few fun awards, including Best Smile, which went to Joanne Stark, who is known for always bringing warmth to the room, and Best at Quizzes, given to Ava Thomas, who consistently aced quiz games and trivia challenges.
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