Residents and families at a Bristol care home have been taking a step back from busy routines to do something simple but powerful – tell each other how much they care.
Over the past few months, the team at Meryton Place Care Home have been running an initiative encouraging residents and their loved ones to write letters of appreciation to one another.
These messages have been shared on a dedicated board at the Bath Road home, creating a growing display of gratitude, memories and affection.
The initiative culminated in Mother’s Day, when families were invited to come together for an afternoon of activities, pampering, and refreshments.
Among those taking part was resident Maud Sheppard, who welcomed several family members to join her, including daughters Kristine Mountford, Kim Benton and Maud’s grandson Ross Mountford alongside his wife, Kellie.
In a message displayed on the board, Maud’s daughter Kim Benton wrote: “Mum is kind, caring, funny and gives unconditional love to me and my family always. She is not only my mum, but one of my best friends ever.”
Fellow resident Joyce Hill enjoyed a relaxing facial with Kristine Mountford while Gwen Jones spent time catching up over tea with her friend Nancy Webb.
Other Messages from loved ones echoed similar sentiments, with one note reading: “When we were growing up, Mum was always there for us.”
Another read: “I had lovely cuddles with mother, I still remember and feel it.”
The team at the home say the project has brought residents and families closer together, sparking conversations, shared memories and meaningful moments.
Meryton Place Wellbeing Coach Cheryl Woodward said: “While the project coincided with Mothering Sunday, we’ve taken it further and want to emphasise the importance of expressing appreciation at any time, not just on one particular day.
“We hope the initiative serves as a reminder that small gestures – like a few heartfelt words – can make a lasting difference, and that expressing appreciation shouldn’t be saved for special occasions alone.”
