Staff and volunteers from Weldmar Hospicecare were among a select group of guests invited to Windsor Castle last week for a royal reception hosted by the charity’s patron, King Charles III, and The Queen.
The event was held to celebrate and recognise the invaluable contribution of the UK’s 5.8 million unpaid carers – a role that often falls to a loved one of individuals who are under the care of hospices such as Weldmar.
Representing the Dorset charity were Carer Support Coordinator, Chloe Hook, as well as staff and volunteers who themselves have caring responsibilities outside of their day to day work with Weldmar.
Chloe, who provides everything from emotional guidance to practical help for carers of those in Weldmar’s care, said: “The whole experience was one I’ll never forget. It was great to see so many unpaid carers there, being recognised for how much they do day in and day out, chatting with them helped to reinforce just why I do what I do within Weldmar! We also met and spoke with other organisations such as Carers UK. It was interesting to learn more about what they do, and how they support carers.”
Lu Worrall, from Weldmar’s Specialist Hospice at Home service, described the experience as “profoundly humbling”, whilst lead consultant Dr Parsons said: “Meeting His Majesty and the Prime Minister made it feel so special – a rare moment I will never forget. I came away feeling deeply grateful to have spent an evening among people who genuinely understand the importance of caring.”
Carole Potter, a volunteer at Weldmar’s Poundbury Clearance Outlet, said: “I care for my son, Max, who had a brain injury at the age of five. He now volunteers at the outlet too. The King asked what I did, and we spoke briefly about Max. It was lovely to be recognised as a carer; it was such an exciting day.”
Staff Nurse Ruth Mason added: “It was an honour and privilege to represent Weldmar at the carers’ reception. We got to meet the King, and encouraged him to visit Weldmar again as our patron. Talking to other guests, the breadth of carers was amazing and it was heartening to see that there are so many caring people quietly supporting people live better lives.”
