A WILMSLOW woman has gone from resident at a care home to volunteer staff.

Barbara Gallart, 76, first came to Hazelmere House to visit her sister who is a long-term resident. After undergoing a hip replacement in October 2019, Barbara became a short-stay resident at the home for respite care and formed close friendships with staff and residents.

Barbara enjoyed her stay so much that at the end of her treatment, home manager Jo Angell-Sedgwick and clinical services manager Tom Davison, offered her the opportunity to join the team as a volunteer.

Barbara said: “When they offered me the opportunity to be a part of the team at the home, I was over the moon to accept. I love spending time with everyone - I have a great time here.”

Barbara will be helping with evening functions like the recent Valentine’s Day event and will be joining staff and residents on outings to new locations including the theatre.

Jo said: “Barbara is a joy to have at the home. She has so much to give to others and we are very lucky to have her as part of the team.

“She’s brilliant at chatting to residents and their families whether it’s mingling in or social areas, helping at special events or joining us on outings."

“We always welcome volunteers and new faces into our home. It keeps everyone socialising and having a laugh, which really compliments the home and adds to the atmosphere.”

Hazelmere House Bupa Care Home welcome those in need of nursing or residential care as well as respite and short stays. Residents have a variety of social areas to choose from including an onsite bar and outdoor terrace, and are offered a full programme of regular activities such as pet therapy.