Kerry Puts Her Best Foot Forward to Raise Money for Dementia Research and Care

Fundraising Effort Inspired by Personal Experience

Kerry McWilliams, a caring dementia support worker at Ashlea Lodge Care Home near Sunderland, is embarking on a fundraising sponsored steps campaign in May to raise money for Dementia UK. Inspired by her grandparents, both of whom lived with dementia, Kerry aims to support research and care for the condition.

Tying in with Dementia Action Week

Kerry’s fundraising effort coincides with Dementia Action Week, which runs from May 13-19. This year’s theme is diagnosis, calling on the Government and the NHS to prioritise dementia in policy and decision-making.

Walking for a Cause

Kerry’s initial goal was to walk 31 miles during the month of May. Having surpassed this figure, she is now encouraging residents at Ashlea Lodge to join her, adding a few steps to her total each day. Kerry has worked at Ashlea Lodge, located on Hylton Rd, Sunderland, for three years. It was the first home in the Orchard Care Homes group to feature a Reconnect Community, which focuses on personalized care, meaningful activities, and non-reliance on pharmacological approaches.

Personal Motivation

Kerry shared her motivation:

“My nana had vascular dementia and grandad has Lewy body dementia. This is why I was drawn into dementia care. I have been at Ashlea Lodge for a while now and am completely passionate about my work, providing a happy and fulfilled life for people living with the condition.”

She added:

“It is honestly so rewarding, that I want to give something back and help to raise awareness.”

Community Support and Achievements

Kerry has already raised £100 online, with the total expected to rise through direct cash donations. To support her fundraising efforts, donations can be made here.

Orchard Care Homes, the organisation behind Ashlea Lodge, was named winner of the LaingBuisson Award for Excellence in Large Residential Care last year. Additionally, it achieved a five-star food rating at every home across its portfolio.

About Orchard Care Homes

Orchard Care Homes has been running and managing care homes across the UK for more than a decade, with a mission to provide the highest standards of quality care. Orchard Care Homes provides nursing support, short-term care, and dementia nursing in a compassionate and safe environment.

The organisation has invested heavily in modern technologies such as Med E Care (electronic medication management), PCS (electronic care plans), PainChek (AI technology to assess pain), and Access care compliance to facilitate quality care outcomes and governance.


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