On 15th September 2022 Excelcare’s two Lambeth-based care homes, Windmill Lodge and Limetree, received an incredibly special visit from Christopher Wellbelove DL, the Representative Deputy Lieutenant of Lambeth.
Christopher acts as a county representative for His Royal Majesty and has been visiting care homes in the Lambeth area this week in light of Her Royal Majesty Queen Elizabeth II’s passing, so that the people living in the homes can sign their book of condolences. The people living and working at Limetree and Windmill Lodge were so grateful to be included, as the news has profoundly affected everyone, and they wanted to pay their respects in every way possible.
Christopher first visited Windmill Lodge Care Home, where he was joined by Councillor Marcia Cameron, Lambeth’s Cabinet Member for Healthier Communities. The pair were accompanied by members of the team as they toured the home, inviting residents to sign the book of condolences. Many of the people living at both Windmill Lodge and Limetree have witnessed the reign of Queen Elizabeth II from the day of her coronation over 70 years ago, until the day she sadly passed away at Balmoral Castle, and were greatly affected by the news of her passing. As they signed the book, they reminisced and shared their stories with Christopher and Marcia.
One resident, Trevor, used to be one of the Queen’s Royal Guards. As he was leaving his condolences in the book, a member of the team shared the picture of him in uniform with everyone. It touched everyone’s hearts, and Marcia talked through the photo with Trevor, prompting him to reminisce on his time.
"As we remember the Queen at this time of great sadness, we have been working to ensure that everyone in care is included during this period of National Mourning. Most of the people living in care homes have been around since Her late Majesty’s coronation but may not be able to physically pay their respects with the rest of the country. These visits are but a small way of making sure that everyone is included, as they are part of the community and should not be overlooked.” said Marcia.
Christopher’s visit to Limetree Care Home also evoked many memories for the people living and working in the home. Signing the book of condolence made some residents quite emotional as they shared their opinions of the Queen. When asked for her thoughts, resident Peggy said, “It’s lovely signing the book. It is so sad to see that she’s gone as she was so nice. Every time I saw her on TV she seemed really down to Earth.”
Christopher ended his visits by thanking the teams for all of their hard work over the last few years. “The care sector has faced so many challenges over the last few years, but you have banded together and shown compassion and kindness in the toughest of times. On behalf of His Royal Majesty, I thank you all.”