11/09/2023   LinCA Visit to Number 10

Our Chair Melanie Weatherley MBE was invited to visit 10 Downing Street with a small group of six Lincolnshire-based representatives from Grosvenor House, Walnut Care and Ashdene Care Home.

The visit in August was in honour of the work social care staff are putting in day in, day out to help their communities and to say a big thank you for their effort and sacrifices during the pandemic. Carers are doing exceptional work not only in Lincolnshire but nationally and the event showed appreciation for all involved regardless of position or level.

The reception was opened and hosted by Helen Whately, Minister of State for Social Care, alongside co-host Deborah Sturdy CBE, Chief Nurse for Adult Social Care. Those attending came from all over the nation and featured a diversity of staff from across the sector, such as registered managers, social workers, care assistants and more. This allowed guests to speak to others they can relate to, share experiences and celebrate the sector’s success together.

It was a great opportunity for members of government to personally thank social care workers who not only had such a huge impact on the country during the pandemic but work tirelessly on the front line every day. Those who attended felt honoured to be appreciated in such a special way and being thanked and acknowledged in person was truly valued.

Melanie spent the day with staff who would not usually be able to take time away from work to relax and unwind, which was a lovely experience for all involved and a great way to spend a summer’s day. The afternoon also allowed for some time to stop and reflect on how far the social care sector has come and what can be done to make things better in the future. Working together and learning from one another will only improve both conditions and care going forward which is the key priority and a shared goal for all workers in the care sector.