Cream Digni-tea

On Thursday 1st February, the Seckford Almshouses in Woodbridge held a Cream Tea to celebrate Dignity in Care. The residents were given green and red cardboards hands (to signify a hand reaching out in friendship) and asked to think about how they felt their dignity was already being respected (to write on the green hands) and if they thought there was room for improvement (on the red hands) these were then placed on our digni-tree and placed in the reception area. There was also a quiz about tea trivia and tea etiquette, followed by scones with jam and cream. Our manager, Cathy O'Brien wrote a poem, which she read out to the residents:

Dignity

A kindly word and a listening ear,

And use my name – don’t call me dear.

A friendly smile, a gentle touch

Don’t make me think I ask too much.

Talk to me and ask how I feel

So if you say that you care, I’ll know that it’s real.

You may think I just moan and groan?

But I may be sad, bewildered, missing my home.

I crave friendship and fun and to sense I belong,

And worthwhile connections - is that so wrong?

Offer me help, with thought and care,

And make the time you spend with me special to share.

You may be busy but please don’t hurry

I know you work hard and it causes me worry.

If I seem angry, frustrated or you see me cry,

Be kind and considerate – don’t walk by.

I’m a patient or resident - but do you see ME!

Then grant me choice, respect and dignity.

Cathy O’Brien