Baking to say thank you to key workers

The manager of a Bridgwater specialist dementia care home has been ‘very touched’ by the arrival of some home-made cakes, baked especially for herself and her staff team by a young neighbour to salute them for the way they are supporting residents at Avalon Nursing Home during the coronavirus crisis.

Sarah Patten, manager of Avalon, said: “We were surprised when her first very hygienically-wrapped cake arrived at the home, and moved by the message that came with it.

 

“Twelve-year-old Sofia Nichols – who also lives in Bridgwater – had heard via her mum, a friend of mine, how hard everyone is working here to try and keep life as normal and rewarding as possible for the people with dementia who live with us.

“Making and delivering cakes within the current rules is a bit of a challenge, but Sofia was very determined and responsible about the whole thing, and we think it’s the loveliest gesture.”

Sofia said: “I thought the carers and staff who work at Avalon deserved some kind of ‘thank you’ for keeping the people they look after safe and happy, so I baked them a cake and my mum walked over with it for her daily exercise.

“Mum said they were really pleased with it, and I’m glad if it brings them some happiness.

“I really love baking and my little sister Harley-Rose, who is only two, loves to help – so we’re really enjoying ourselves as well.”

The pair have also baked some Easter goodies for the team at Avalon.

Sofia’s mum, Charlotte Smart, is being very careful to observe the required social distancing when delivering the cakes and calls the home on her mobile to let them know when there is a fresh delivery outside for them to take indoors.

Avalon Nursing Home is run by the Camelot Care group. The group has further specialist dementia care homes in Wellington and Plymouth. For further information see www.camelotcare.co.uk .