Residents of care homes in Dorset have delivered handmade cards, cakes and other tokens of thanks to local emergency services.
The gesture was part of activities to mark Emergency Services Day, also known as 999 Day, which encourages the public to learn about the work of blue light responders and the importance of using them responsibly.
Residents at Bourne View in Poole and Amberwood House in Ferndown focused their efforts on the fire service.
Keith the Fire Fighter visits Amberwood house to give a talk on the history of the fire service.
It was Shirley’s birthday today and she posed with Maddie and Helen with Keith in from of the appliance.
Residents and team members from The Aldbury, Colten Care’s dedicated dementia care home in Poole, on their visit to the town’s RNLI headquarters.[/caption]
At Bourne View, 101-year-old Nora Lowe was able to explore a fire engine close up and hear how it operates from the crew.
Firefighters visiting Amberwood House brought historic uniforms and equipment dating back more than a century, including brass helmets, hose ends and whistles. Companionship Team Leader Maddee Baker said residents spent time reminiscing about earlier times as they looked at the items and shared memories.
Residents at The Aldbury in Poole also thanked RNLI staff by delivering homemade cookies and cards to lifeguards at the training pool. They included a handmade collage designed by residents to show their gratitude. The group also visited their local fire station to hand out more treats.
Other Colten Care homes in Hampshire and West Sussex joined in by visiting police officers and inviting them to return for conversations with residents.
Top photo: 101-year-old Nora Lowe welcomes a fire service visit to her care home, Colten Care’s Bourne View in Poole. With her is firefighter Dave.
Middle photo – Fire service visit to Colten Care’s Amberwood House in Ferndown, Dorset
Last photo – Residents and team members from The Aldbury, Colten Care’s dedicated dementia care home in Poole, on their visit to the town’s RNLI headquarters.
