On 19th September, all departments and all staff teams at HC-One’s
Market Lavington care home, in Wiltshire, worked together to ensure Residents were able to watch the Queen’s funeral in the manner of their choosing.
Some Residents chose the privacy of their own rooms, without company, and others specifically requested the company of others, and Colleagues were able to organise two groups, one in each of the home’s lovely, newly refurbished lounges, so they could watch the ceremony unfold.
Riaz Ali, Wellbeing Coordinator, said, “It was touching to see and hear the Residents exchange their own stories of seeing or meeting the Queen with each other, and they were also supportive of each other during this emotional occasion.
Colleagues located and printed out the official ‘Order of Service’ from the Royal Family website and printed out copies of these so the Residents, if they wished, could join in with the hymns and follow the readings.
Both groups, and those Residents in their rooms, expressed to Colleagues afterwards of how important it was for them to be a part of this significant event in the history of Britain.
Afterwards, many Resiednts also spoke very positively and with enthusiasm regarding the coronation of King Charles the Third, which currently is expected to take place in the summer of 2023. The home will be marking that event in style.
Violet Lloyd said, “It’s the end of an era, really.”
Fellow Resident Angela Wakely, added, “The organisation of it was excellent. Everything went smoothly and it was all lovely to watch.”
Dennis Scullard, said “The last state funeral was of Winston Churchill, in 1965, which I remember well. It’s strange to think I was forty years old then. I am ninety-seven now!”
Gordon Grist, who also lives at Market Lavington, commented, “I’d like to know more about the rituals and ceremony. It’s very interesting isn’t it. And their uniforms that the guards wear must mean something. Where do those hats come from?”
Subsequently, Riaz then spent time with Gordon looking up the origins of the Busby hat, which he really appreciated.
Stanley Thompson, remarked, “It’s a sad day. I am glad I had company watching it, I think we need support at times like this. She was a good person and a role model to everyone.”
The morning was quiet, peaceful and full of memories, reminiscence and reflection for all involved.
Kurt Paulus, said, “I was born in Germany, emigrated to Canada with my family in 1957, and came to England in 1965 to study at university, so the Queen was obviously the head of state for Canada. I felt her presence in Canada and always respected her and valued her as a person.”
Riaz said, “It was a quiet, sombre day of reflection for everyone, and I thank all staff from all departments for being extra mindful and caring towards our Residents today.”