“NO one can be unhappy when Gerry is around.”
It’s a ringing endorsement for Pendine Park activities manager Gerry Humphreys.
But when it comes from the husband of one of the care organisation’s residents, it is even more heartfelt.
Malcolm Crosbie of Ruabon, is the husband of retired civil servant Audrey, 82, an Alzheimer sufferer and resident at Pendine’s Highfield home, in Gwersyllt near Wrexham.
He has nominated Gerry in the promoting fulfilling lives category of the Wales Care Awards, a category sponsored by Boots.
The Awards recognise the unsung heroes by rewarding the best in the caring professions. October 21 at Cardiff City Hall is the profession’s “Oscars” night finals staged in association with Care Forum Wales, the organisation which represents more than 500 care homes and independent care sector organisations.
“My strong belief is that just because someone is living in the care sector does not mean their social life should end,” said Gerry, who lives with her partner at Holt, near Wrexham.
Retired project engineer and father of two Mr Crosbie, said: “As a member of the relatives support group I’ve had the privilege and pleasure to work with Gerry towards the enhancement of the lives of residents.
“I have first-hand knowledge of her commitment and dedication and the effort she puts in, not only during her work hours, but also in her own time. She gives up her spare time to take able residents to football matches, or others to the theatre for example.
“There is always something going on to stimulate the residents, twice weekly quizzes, bingo, handicraft, musical entertainment by visiting musicians, fashion shows – all organised by Gerry.”
Gerry started as a care worker about 20 years ago and found herself working at Highfield care home in Summerhill Road, Wrexham, as a care worker, when the activities co-ordinator left.
“I just thought I could see possibilities of doing a lot more for the residents, taking them further afield on days out,” she said. She applied and got the job. Now she is activities manager for the entire group.
She has set up a swimming club for residents, ladies go to ballet performances, some of the men go to football matches. There are visiting musicians and choirs.
“I picked up a gentlemen from hospital a couple of weeks ago to bring him here for the day and he could not believe how ‘liberated’ it felt here and how much was going on and now he’s looking to join us.
“We have quiz nights which are quite competitive and teams compete for a trophy which we award just before Christmas.
“Of course you have ladies and gents who do not wish to join in everything. We all like some quiet time, and we respect that and perhaps read or just talk to them in their room,” said Gerry, who between her and her partner have nine grandchildren.
“I was gobsmacked when I knew I was nominated, for someone to think that highly of you. I’m just doing what I’m meant to be doing, I believe that is why I’m here to try and fulfil the wishes of the residents and families.”
About six years ago Gerry set up the family support group. “When you talk to some of the relatives they like to say how they are feeling and at times they feel they are on their own, so it’s important they share their feelings with others who are in the same position.
“Malcolm (Crosbie) is a very supportive member of the group and I’m lost for words that he should have nominated me but even more shocked to find I am one of the finalists,” she said.
Mario Kreft MBE, the Honorary Chief Executive of Care Forum Wales, said the Wales Care Awards had gone from strength to strength.
He said: “The event is now firmly established as one of the highlights in the Welsh social care calendar.
“The aim is to recognise the unstinting and often remarkable dedication of our unsung heroes and heroines across Wales.
“The care sector is full of wonderful people because it’s not just a job it’s a vocation – these are the people who really do have the X Factor.
“If you don’t recognise the people who do the caring you will never provide the standards that people need and never recognise the value of the people who need the care in society.
“We need to do all we can to raise the profile of the care sector workforce – they deserve to be lauded and applauded.
“It is a pleasure to honour the contribution of all the finalists. Each and every one of them should be very proud of their achievement.”
Photograph: Pendine Park Activities manager Gerry Humphreys with resident Paul Williams
