RELATIVES and residents have praised the actions of staff at four care homes in the borough for going “beyond the call of duty” during the bad weather.
The four Kathryn homes, part of the Runwood Homes group, had staff walking into work, sometimes several miles, to ensure that round the clock care was maintained for their elderly clients.
Leatherland Lodge in South Ockendon, Carolyne House, Bennet Lodge in Chadwell St Mary and Whitecroft on the Stanford Road all saw an “all hands on deck” mentality as the temperature plunged below zero and the roads became inpassable.
Operational Director for Kathryn Homes, Sue Smith said: “We have been so proud of our staff. Some have walked into work, Others have swopped shifts.
“Where food suppliers have not been able to get in, then we have driven to them.
“We have ensured that all our residents take in plenty of fluids and have added soup to the regular tea/coffee stops.
“Staff in all four homes have also decided to bring christmas forward and put the decorations up!
“We also have to thank our senior executives such as Gordon Sanders and Sarah Baker who have got into their 4×4’s and drive around to all the homes.
“It has been a great team effort and we are very proud of everyone who has helped to care for our residents.”
