Medway Care Services was delighted to host a Networking Lunch – Celebrating the Power of Respite Care on 28th November, generously hosted by Murrayfield Care Home.

The event brought together professionals and community members with an interest in social care and community health services, providing a fantastic opportunity to network, share experiences, and discuss the vital role of respite care in supporting families.

A special thank you to Katy and Matt for sharing such a powerful insight into the incredible work Leuchie is doing. Their presentation truly resonated with everyone in the room and highlighted the real impact your charity has on individuals and families across Scotland.

As part of the event, attendees participated in a raffle with fantastic prizes sponsored by Melville Castle, The Royal Zoological Society of Scotland and Leuchie helping to raise funds for Leuchie, The National Respite Charity. We are very grateful to our raffle prize sponsors for their generous donations. Leuchie provides essential respite care for individuals with neurological conditions and their families, giving them much-needed breaks and support. The event managed to raise over £400 in total.

For those who were unable to attend, donations could also be made via Medway Care Services’ JustGiving page, ensuring everyone had the chance to contribute to this important cause.

Medway Care Services are thrilled with the success of our networking event and it was wonderful to see so many people come together to celebrate and support this vital charity.

Thank you to everyone who attended, purchased raffle tickets, or donated online. Your support is helping families access the respite care they need and deserve.

Support Leuchie: Donate via JustGiving

A World War Two veteran who played a supporting role in Britain’s wartime intelligence efforts has been honoured as she marked her 102nd birthday.

Doctor Jean Munro, a resident at Lynemore Care Home in Grantown on Spey, was a member of Hut 6 at Bletchley Park, the team responsible for deciphering German Army and Air Force Enigma messages.

Earlier this year, Dr Munro took part in a podcast to mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day. In it, she revealed that she was unable to share details of her top-secret work with family and friends until the 1980s.

Historians believe that breaking the Enigma code may have shortened the war by two to four years, potentially saving hundreds of thousands of lives. “I never thought of it that way, but if I think about it now, I think I’m really glad,” she says.

In recognition of her service, Dr Munro has been awarded the Freedom of Bletchley Park, a rare honour conferred by the Bletchley Park Trust, and presented with a specially made Veteran’s pin badge.

Pamela Cummings, manager of Lynemore Care Home, said: “We feel deeply honoured to have celebrated not only this milestone birthday, but also the presentation of such an incredible honour in recognition of Jean’s vital work as a codebreaker at Bletchley Park. It was an emotional occasion to share this double celebration with Jean and her loved ones. She is a remarkable lady and a much-loved part of the Lynemore family.”

Dr Jean Munro was born in 1923 and raised in London by Scottish parents. She studied at university in London and later completed a PhD at Edinburgh University. A distinguished historian and author, she held senior roles with several leading heritage organisations, among them the Scottish History Society, the Scottish Local History Forum, the Scottish Genealogy Society, the National Trust for Scotland and the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland. She also served as President of The Grantown Society.

To listen to the VE Day podcast featuring Jean Munro, visit podfollow.com/parklands

Fairview House Care Home is pleased to announce that its first Christmas Variety Show was a tremendous success. The dining room was filled with residents, relatives, and friends, all enjoying the delightful entertainment provided by the talented employees. It was truly heart-warming to witness smiles and joy spread across so many faces.

Special congratulations go to everyone who won a prize in the Christmas quiz. Their knowledge and enthusiasm were impressive, and the well-deserved chocolates were a fitting reward.

Fairview extends sincere thanks to every relative and friend who joined for this special occasion. Their presence made the event even more memorable, and it was a joy to share such a wonderful experience together.

The performers were brilliant, and their talent and dedication made the event unforgettable. Fairview acknowledges that the success of the show would not have been possible without staff’s participation, and thanks them for bringing so much joy and entertainment to our residents and local community.

The feedback received was overwhelmingly positive. Zak Beaman shared, “This is what caring is about! Fun, togetherness, and memory making. Love it.”

John McKinnon added, “I just wanted to say a massive thank-you to all the staff at Fairview who took part in the Christmas show at the home. All staff really put their all into making it a fabulous show for the residents—thank you all from the bottom of my heart, you really did well. I hope Cecilia has managed to get her breath back after the can-can.”

Fairview House Care Home recently shared a wonderful story about two residents enjoying a very special trip to Aberdeen Indoor Bowling Club – and what a day it was!

Alec returned to the lanes like a true champion. Bowling has been a huge part of his life for over 30 years as a proud member of  Aberdeen Indoor Bowling Club, a membership he still holds today! As soon as he walked in, Alec knew exactly where his locker was and where his bowls were kept, as if no time had passed at all.

He began his journey in outdoor bowling before moving indoors, collecting countless achievements along the way — including multiple championship titles and representing the Scottish Seniors in competitions across the country. Watching Alec reconnect so naturally with a place that holds so many memories was truly special!

Eveline also shone on the trip. She first took up bowling with her husband and son, playing both indoors and out. As a long-time member of her local club in Bridge of Don, she became an active and dedicated member and even a club champion! Her competitive spirit, especially when playing against her husband, always brought laughter and energy to the club.

Seeing them both return to a sport they loved was a beautiful reminder of the joy that meaningful activities bring.

Abercorn House Care Home was deeply touched by the generosity of the Shepherd family, who kindly donated a beautiful bench in memory of their beloved father and husband, Jim Shepherd.

Engraved with a special marker, this bench stands as a lasting tribute to Jim and his time at Abercorn House. It will provide a peaceful spot for reflection and remembrance for residents, families, and staff alike.

Jim was dearly loved by both his family and the care home team, and his gentle presence is fondly remembered by all who knew him. One of the most cherished moments during Jim’s time at Abercorn House was when he and his wife, Joan, celebrated their 56th wedding anniversary with a vow renewal organised by the home.

This thoughtful gift will offer a peaceful place for reflection and remembrance for residents, families, and staff.

From Salon to Senior Leadership – Gemma’s Inspiring Journey at Meallmore

Every care home has its pillars – the people who quietly step in, step up and naturally become the ones families rely on, colleagues trust, and residents feel safe with. At Meallmore, one of those people is Gemma, now Deputy Manager at Antonine House. Her journey from part-time hairdresser to senior leader is a powerful example of what’s possible when talent, opportunity and compassion come together.

A Beginning in an Unexpected Place

Gemma left school at sixteen and took a practical path, working in a local salon where she built confidence and strong people skills – skills she had no idea would shape her future leadership style. A call from Antonine House changed everything: they were looking for an in-house hairdresser, and as a young mum balancing childcare and work, the job offered the perfect fit.

What she didn’t expect was how deeply she would connect with residents. Although she had little experience supporting older adults, something clicked almost instantly. She listened to life stories, formed bonds and discovered a level of compassion she hadn’t known before. Completing the HEARTS course at Strathcarron Hospice further strengthened her understanding of sensory connection and end-of-life support. These early experiences planted the seed for something bigger.

Finding Her Calling

As Gemma became more involved in daily life within the home, she stepped in wherever help was needed. She supported residents beyond her hairdressing role and quickly realised that care was where she truly belonged. She saw the difference she could make and fell in love with the work.

When the pandemic hit, everything changed. Hairdressing stopped, families were separated, and uncertainty was everywhere. Instead of stepping back, Gemma stepped forward. She helped with staff testing, supported the office team and provided reassurance when it was needed most. Her manager recognised her potential and encouraged her to consider a permanent role in care. With her husband furloughed and childcare more manageable, she embraced the opportunity. She never looked back.

Pictured: Gemma Palferman and a resident, Jemima Hylands (known as Mima)

Training That Transformed a Career

If there’s one theme running through Gemma’s journey, it’s learning. She took every opportunity to grow and develop. She completed her SVQ3, joined Meallmore’s Upskill Senior Carer programme, and became responsible for running her unit – a role that strengthened her confidence and leadership.

Later, she progressed to Senior Carer Practitioner, completed Meallmore’s self-directed learning programme and achieved her SVQ4. In 2024, she joined the Leadership and Management programme – a turning point in her professional development. The programme broadened her knowledge of leadership, compliance, communication and decision-making. Presenting to Meallmore’s Board of Directors on end-of-life care helped her realise she could lead not just at team level, but organisationally too. Learning didn’t just build her skills – it built her belief in herself.

Stepping Up When It Mattered Most

In March 2025, Gemma became Team Leader. With this came new responsibilities: compliance, audits, staffing, partnership working and supporting residents with complex needs. She and the management team made significant improvements to internal audits and Care Inspectorate grades.

When the Deputy Manager was seconded to another home, Gemma was offered the chance to step into the role. It was daunting, but she knew she was ready. Looking back at her progression, she saw a clear path built through hard work, learning and the encouragement of those around her.

What Drives Her Every Day

Gemma’s motivation stems from a personal experience in which she witnessed non-person-centred care as a family member. She knows how it feels when loved ones aren’t supported the way they should be, and she vowed never to let anyone in her care feel that way. That promise shapes everything she does – her leadership, her decisions and her drive for high standards. For Gemma, this work isn’t just a job. It’s a purpose.

Becoming a Deputy Manager

Today, as Deputy Manager, Gemma sees leadership as an opportunity to lift others up. She mentors colleagues the way she was mentored. She creates an environment where staff feel confident, capable and valued. She listens, leads by example and lives the Meallmore values every day. She understands what it feels like to start in an entry-level role with doubts, and she knows what can happen when the right support and opportunities are given. Through her leadership, she hopes to inspire others to follow a similar path.

A Story That Shows What’s Possible

Gemma’s journey is just one story, but it reflects something far bigger. It shows what happens when an organisation believes in career pathways, invests in development and recognises potential early. It’s proof that a supportive culture can change the direction of someone’s life. It demonstrates the power of training, mentorship and opportunity.

Her progression showcases everything Meallmore stands for: growth, learning, values and compassion. It highlights that great care starts with great people – and when those people are supported, encouraged and developed, they flourish. Most importantly, it shows future colleagues what’s possible. At Meallmore, there is no single starting point. A carer can become a practitioner. A practitioner can become a leader. And yes — a hairdresser can become a Deputy Manager. Gemma is living proof of that.

Please see below for another amazing good news story from Abercorn House Care Home!

🎭 A Huge Thank You to Hamilton District Youth Theatre! 🎶✨

What an absolutely fantastic afternoon here at Abercorn House Care Home! Our residents, families and staff were treated to a wonderful performance from the incredibly talented Hamilton District Youth Theatre.

The group brought back the magic of their recent Hamilton Town House show, “All Shook Up”, filling our home with the timeless music of Elvis Presley. Their energy, passion and professionalism lit up the room, and every song had our residents smiling, clapping and singing along. 💛🎤

We are truly grateful for the joy they shared with us today. Thank you for giving your time, your talent and your hearts, it meant so much to everyone here at Abercorn.

Well done to all the young performers, you made our day unforgettable! 🌟💙

One of our amazing care home members at Westwood House Care Home has been busy spreading joy! They donated some blankets to the local Dogs Trust for the lovely furry friends, for over winter! Residents loved it and are planning the next visit to donate some more items over the coming months. This was so meaningful for one resident, Christine, as she loves dogs and misses seeing her dogs daily.

They even had alpacas in and had a Fiesta Party. The kitchen cooked some lovely snacks and families also enjoyed spending the day with their loved ones! The home wished that they could have kept the alpacas.

To top it off, they arranged a lovely visit to the Link Nursery. The children gifted Westwood House with a homemade gift, which is now hanging in the house’s lounge!

What a truly magical evening Abercorn House had celebrating Bonfire Night! Residents, family members and staff gathered under the starry sky for a night filled with laughter, warmth and sparkle.

The bonfire crackled gently, lighting up smiling faces as everyone sang along to the music and watched fireworks dance across the sky. The scent of roasted marshmallows filled the air, adding a sweet touch to the festive atmosphere.

It wasn’t just the fire that warmed us, it was the joy of being together. Moments like these remind us of the power of community, connection and celebration.