‘I had always wanted to pass an English exam but was never given the opportunity. At Winsford House, they enrolled me on the local college and supported my learning, and I passed my English Literature GCSE in 2022, I feel so proud of my achievement and all my carers were beyond proud too.’

Reg,87

‘Myself and my wife began living together in one of the Ballagh Care homes, we had heard about how people renew their wedding vows and the home helped this dream come true. We had an amazing ceremony to celebrate our 70 years of marriage.’

Arthur, 98

‘The home organised a Creative Writing & Art Competition, I always took pride in my garden at home, and I repainted my potting shed every year. I was awarded the Outdoor Painting Plaque at the home, for spending a lovely weekend being supported in my wheelchair, to repaint the front door of our garden shed.’

Eileen, 88

‘I am a war veteran, who was injured during service and had both legs amputated. My passion for keeping fit was promoted in the home, and I was assisted to go to the local gym each week.’

Michael, 92

‘I used to swim off Clacton Pier every day, in a sea swimming group. I now have an assisted swimming lesson twice a month, to help me feel I haven’t given everything up.’

Joan, 82

‘I am Alf, I’m 95 and I write the monthly home newsletter, the men’s gardening club and I was the proud winner of Resident of the Year, Great British Care Awards.’