Sheree Green pays tribute to the contribution of her colleagues at Greenchurch Legal Services Limited
I work with people who care about our clients and the work we do – and who want to make a difference. Our aim is to make the world a little more colourful and joy-filled – particularly for our older clients. Sometimes we know very little about the people we work with. They may have outlived their friends and have little by way of family support.
Enter our casework team, Michelle, Clare and Jenny, to work their magic. This month our spotlight is on Michelle Watson. Michelle’s mission is to unlock passions and interests, to revive memories and to make new ones, no matter the age or circumstances or pocket.
Adam* loves to post – letters, sandwiches, sweaters, whatever takes his fancy. He has been posting items out of his care home bedroom window for a number of years. But no longer. Michelle has organised a real post box for Adam’s room. Adam can now post freely, without the risk of his beloved items blowing away or being left at the mercy of the elements.
Edith* has been unhappy for a long time. Nothing and no-one could hold her interest – until a chance conversation with her old friend alerted Michelle to Edith’s love of French. On two afternoons every week, Edith’s new friend arrives with the gift of French singing and conversation. Over the months, Edith’s mood has lifted, she spends time out of her room, and now she has something to chat about.
Sylvia* was a budding amateur artist, but it had been a long time since she had wielded a paint brush. Michelle arranged Sylvia’s first trip out of the care home in 2 years – to the art shop for new supplies. The second was to Birmingham Art Gallery. Her carer reported back that Sylvia stood before each painting and gazed. The care home exhibits some of Sylvia’s work in their communal areas.
We are thrilled to have been shortlisted for the 2019/2020 STEP Private Client – Vulnerable Client Advisory Practice Award. We are thrilled that our small attempts to change the world, one life at a time, do make a difference. We are thrilled that others share our belief that this is important work.
Names have been changed*
