Hampden House Celebrates Two Top Years

Dec. 19, 2012 - PRLog -- Hampden House on Duchy Road, part of the national charity Elizabeth Finn Care, is inviting members of the public to help it celebrate all nine nominations, along with a £2.3m refurbishment which was completed earlier this year.

General manager Lynda Cooper said: “It really has been a fantastic couple of years for us and we want to mark that by opening our doors to the community.

“We always do a lot to celebrate Christmas at Hampden House, but this year will be extra special after a very busy year and we want to share that with as many people as possible.”

Mrs Cooper herself was the most recent person to be shortlisted for an award in the Care Leadership category at the National Care Awards.

Although she narrowly missed out on the night, being one of just five people shortlisted from across the UK was a significant achievement and added to a string of successes for the care home.

Staff members have reached the finals of a further eight awards in different categories over the past two years, including the 2011 National Care Awards and the Great Yorkshire and Humberside Care Awards in 2010, 2011 and 2012.

One of those most frequently nominated is clinical care manager Dawn Kilvington, who has been working in elderly care since she was 14.

She began as an assistant giving out teas before starting her nursing training when she was old enough. However, her training was cut short when she had her first child.

Not to be deterred, Dawn later returned to training, even taking her third baby into classes with her so she could complete her final exams.

Her role at Hampden House now includes being the dignity champion, which means doing all she can – both within the home and working with other organisations – to ensure residents are given the respect and dignity they deserve.

Mrs Cooper said: “Dawn has never lost her passion for wanting and fighting for the best choices and dignity of every resident in her care.

“I could not have a better clinical care manager and the home could not have a better dignity champion.”

To celebrate a successful two years, Hampden House is inviting members of the public to join it for two special festive events this month.

On Tuesday, December 11, Harrogate Harmony Barbershop Chorus will be making its first visit to Hampden House for a performance at 2pm. The following Monday, December 17, again at 2pm, residents will be celebrating Christmas with traditions from around the world in Serendipity: Christmas Near and Far.

Finally, on Tuesday, December 18, there will be a carol service at 2.30pm.

Anyone wishing to attend either event should call Hampden House on 01423 566964.