Three care home staff members, including a senior general manager, completed a 54-mile charity cycle challenge, raising £1,166 for the Barchester Charitable Foundation, which supports older people and adults with disabilities across the UK.
Wayne Hughes, senior general manager at Magnolia Court Care Home in Child’s Hill, took part in the London to Brighton Cycle Ride on September 13. He was joined by care practitioner Solomon Imafidon and Raj Boodhoo, senior general manager at Chalfont Lodge Care Home in Chalfont St Peter.
The trio raised the funds through sponsorship and donations, with the money going directly to the Barchester Charitable Foundation. The foundation provides grants for specialist equipment, outings, activities and experiences that improve wellbeing, encourage independence and reduce loneliness.
Team effort and support
Mr Hughes described the experience as “fantastic” and highlighted the importance of the cause. He said: “It was a fantastic experience and made even more special knowing that we were doing it for such a worthwhile cause. There were certainly some challenging moments along the way but we supported each other and were determined to cross the finish line together.”
He added: “We are absolutely delighted to have raised £1,166 and would like to thank everyone who donated and sent us messages of encouragement. The support we received from our colleagues, residents, relatives and friends really did mean a lot to us.”
The cyclists were cheered across the finish line by three residents from Magnolia Court, who travelled to Brighton with staff members. The group celebrated together with a fish and chip lunch on the beach.
Praise from Barchester Healthcare
A spokesperson for Barchester Healthcare praised the team’s achievement. They said: “The teams at Magnolia Court and Chalfont Lodge were incredibly proud of Wayne, Solomon and Raj for completing the challenge and raising £1,166 for the Foundation.”
The spokesperson added: “Every pound raised will help the Barchester Charitable Foundation continue its work supporting older people and adults with disabilities and providing opportunities that can make a real difference to their lives.”
Magnolia Court and Chalfont Lodge Care Homes are part of Barchester Healthcare, one of the UK’s largest care providers. The charity cycle ride is one of several fundraising events organised by the foundation, which relies on public donations to fund its grants.
The success of this challenge highlights the commitment of care home staff to supporting the wider community, and the funds raised will contribute to improving the lives of vulnerable adults across the UK.
