National Tea Party Day Fundraiser Launch

A UK social care charity has partnered with British manufacturer Arthur Price to launch a National Tea Party Day fundraising campaign on 21 April. The campaign supports older people and unpaid caregivers who are at risk of loneliness and isolation.

Grace Cares, a not-for-profit organisation, delivers preventative community support. In addition, it promotes circular economy initiatives in health and social care. As part of the campaign, the charity is raffling an Arthur Price Everyday Classic 42-piece boxed cutlery set worth £279.

Tickets cost £10 each. Importantly, the funds will help expand community tea parties and Care Club sessions. These initiatives provide connection, trusted advice, and practical support before challenges become crises.

The organisation will draw the winning ticket on National Tea Party Day. This timing highlights how simple community activities can improve wellbeing and reduce pressure on public services.

Supporting Prevention Across the Care Pathway

Loneliness is now widely recognised as a major public health issue. It affects both older people and unpaid caregivers across the UK.

According to Age UK, around 1.4 million older people often feel lonely. Furthermore, data from the Office for National Statistics shows that persistent loneliness links to poorer physical health. It can also reduce independence and increase the need for support services.

However, community-based initiatives can help. For example, tea parties encourage connection and conversation. As a result, they support the wellbeing principles of the Care Act 2014. They also help people stay independent for longer and avoid crisis-level support.

Hannah Montgomery, co-founder of Grace Cares, said:
“Small moments of connection can make a significant difference. A cup of tea and conversation may seem simple, but they help people feel seen, supported and less alone. Prevention starts in communities, and National Tea Party Day is a powerful way to bring people together while supporting those who need it most.”

Supporting Unpaid Caregivers and Building Resilience

Across the UK, millions of unpaid caregivers provide essential support. They play a vital role in sustaining the health and social care system. However, many experience isolation, stress, and limited access to support.

Therefore, the raffle aims to make a difference. Funds will support hardship grants and community programmes run by Grace Cares. These programmes help both caregivers and older people. In turn, they strengthen resilience and reduce pressure on the wider care system.

Simon Price, chairman of Arthur Price, said:
“The statistics around loneliness are deeply concerning, and we are proud to support Grace Cares in their work bringing people together. We hope this campaign encourages more communities and organisations to take part and help create meaningful connections.”

Invitation to Communities and Care Organisations

Grace Cares is encouraging care providers, community groups, volunteers, and local organisations to get involved. Specifically, they can host their own tea parties as part of the campaign.

These events are simple and low-cost. Nevertheless, they can have a big impact. They support wellbeing, strengthen relationships, and improve quality of life for older people and unpaid caregivers.

Hannah added:
“We would love to see care organisations and communities across the country getting involved. Something as simple as tea and cake can create moments that genuinely change how people feel.”

How to Get Involved ☕

There are several easy ways to support the campaign:

Purchase a £10 raffle ticket to win the Arthur Price Everyday Classic 42-piece cutlery set
Host a tea party for older people or unpaid caregivers in your community
Share the campaign with colleagues, residents, families, and volunteers

Tickets are available at:
https://grace-cares.com/donations/arthur-price-raffle/

Find out more:
www.grace-cares.com
01543 730189
hello@grace-cares.com

From Reuse to Recognition: Grace Cares Named in UK Green Growth 100

Grace Cares recognised nationally for sustainability-led success

Lichfield-based Grace Cares has earned a place in the prestigious Green Growth 100. Small Business Britain launched the initiative in partnership with BT to spotlight small businesses that use sustainability as a core driver of growth. As a result, the list highlights companies that turn environmental responsibility into measurable commercial success.

The Green Growth 100 champions 100 small businesses across the UK. These organisations embed sustainable practices into daily operations, from cutting waste and energy use to rethinking supply chains. In addition, they attract new customers and strengthen long-term resilience.

A Circular Model at the Heart

Founded in 2023 by Hannah Montgomery, Emma Smith and Adam Harrison, Grace Cares places sustainability at the centre of its mission. From day one, the founders built the business around circular economy principles.

The organisation runs a circular reuse model that collects, redistributes and resells quality pre-loved care equipment. Instead of sending these essential items to landfill, the team extends their lifespan through resale, donation and responsible recycling. Consequently, Grace Cares reduces environmental waste while also making care more affordable and accessible for families.

Moreover, the business commits to a zero-to-landfill policy. It aims to sell, donate or recycle 100% of collected equipment through trusted circular economy partnerships.

Creating Social and Environmental Impact

Beyond environmental action, Grace Cares actively reinvests in community initiatives such as Care Club. Through this programme, the organisation supports unpaid carers with education, connection and practical advice.

By combining environmental responsibility with social impact, the business proves that sustainable models can drive commercial growth. At the same time, it strengthens communities and builds long-term resilience.

Industry Recognition for Sustainability Led Growth

On being named in the Green Growth 100, Hannah Montgomery said:

“Grace Cares is committed to a zero-to-landfill policy. We aim to sell, donate and recycle 100% of our pre-loved care equipment and are proud of our circular economy partnerships. Being recognised in the Green Growth 100 is a huge honour and proof that purpose-led, circular business models can drive meaningful growth while creating lasting positive change.”

Michelle Ovens CBE, CEO and Founder of Small Business Britain, said:

“The Green Growth 100 celebrates the small businesses that are showing sustainability and growth go hand in hand. These businesses are not only reducing their environmental impact, but also strengthening their operations, engaging customers, and building more resilient business models. Grace Cares is a brilliant example of how sustainability can fuel long-term success.”

Building on the Work of The Willow Review

The Green Growth 100 builds on the work of The Willow Review, an independent, Government-backed review into the financial benefits of sustainability. Small Business Britain co-chaired the review, while BT contributed as a Steering Board member.

Last summer, the review published landmark recommendations that set out a roadmap to unlock the financial opportunities of sustainability for Britain’s 5.6 million small businesses. As such, the Green Growth 100 continues that momentum by showcasing real-world examples of sustainable growth.

Chris Sims, Chief Commercial Officer, UK Business, at BT, added:

“The businesses in the Green Growth 100 are setting the benchmark for how sustainability can unlock innovation and commercial opportunity. It’s inspiring to see how small businesses across the UK are turning greener practices into real business growth. We’re proud to support this initiative and congratulate Grace Cares on being recognised.”

What’s Next: The Green Growth Awards 2026

As a featured business in the Green Growth 100, Grace Cares now progresses to the next stage: the Green Growth Awards. BT will host the awards on 12 March 2026.

At the event, judges will select two standout businesses to receive a £5,000 grant each. These grants will help them scale their sustainability ambitions and accelerate further positive change.

Grace Cares Wins ESG Leader Award at the National Social Care Leadership Awards

Grace Cares has been named the winner of the ESG Leader Award at the Social Care Leadership Awards, held at the London Marriott Hotel Grosvenor Square.

The national awards celebrate outstanding leadership across the social care sector, recognising individuals and organisations demonstrating excellence in areas such as learning disabilities, dementia care, and home care. The ESG Leader Award specifically honours organisations that exemplify ethical, socially responsible, and sustainable practices within the sector.

The ceremony was hosted by Baroness Ayesha Hazarika MBE, with the ESG category judged by Professor Martin Green OBE, Chief Executive of Care England, and Dr Cecilia Anim CBE, former President of the Royal College of Nursing.

The judges commended Grace Cares for its transformative approach to ESG in social care, commenting:

“Grace Cares transforms ESG in social care through a circular, community-powered model. By rescuing and redistributing thousands of care items, reducing carbon emissions, and reinvesting profits into wellbeing initiatives, they deliver measurable environmental, social, and economic impact – driving sustainability, social justice, and sector-wide change.”

Founded in 2023, Grace Cares is a not-for-profit organisation making care more sustainable by rescuing care equipment from landfill, reselling it affordably, and reinvesting profits into initiatives that support older people, unpaid caregivers, and care providers.

Hannah Montgomery, Co-founder of Grace Cares, said:

“This award isn’t just about sustainability, it’s about people. At Grace Cares, we believe in putting people first while respecting our planet. Every item saved, every cup of tea shared, and every act of kindness adds up to real change. None of this would be possible without our incredible tribe of volunteers, partners, and supporters. It really does take a village to make a difference, and I’m so proud of ours. We’re on a mission to bolster social care and ensure it is sustainable because everyone in this country is touched by social care.”

This national recognition highlights Grace Cares’ commitment to driving sustainability, social value, and innovation within the care sector, while supporting communities and protecting the environment.

L-R – Stefan, Karanjeet, Hannah, Rob and Emma Grace Cares Tribe

Green Groovy Dance Night Raises £500 to Help Keep Life-Changing Van on the Road

Rugeley event combines fun, sustainability, and community spirit in support of Grace Cares

A vibrant evening of sequins, sustainability and spectacular performances took centre stage in Rugeley, as the Green Groovy Dance Night raised £500 for local not-for-profit Grace Cares. The funds will help support the charity’s van crew, who will collect and redistribute vital care equipment across communities.

Hosted by Rebecca Cork from The Mount Rebecca Homes (a residential care provider supporting adults with additional needs) the event was inspired by the book Grace Cares launched last year Did You Deliver Sustainable Care Today? A Sustainability Guide for Care Managers. Determined to combine entertainment with purpose, Rebecca curated a night that celebrated climate-conscious choices, creativity, and community care.

Performers travelled from across the UK to take part, with the lineup including belly dance, burlesque, and hoop dance. A generous £200 donation from Foresters Financial helped fund the catering, while a packed raffle and late-night music added to the excitement.

“I wanted to create something that was fun, inclusive, and had a positive impact,” said organiser Rebecca Cork. “After reading the Grace Cares sustainability guide, I felt motivated to do something local that also contributed to the bigger picture. I’m so proud of everyone who came together to support this brilliant cause.”

Thank you and funds raised

The evening was made possible thanks to the generosity of local supporters. Special thanks go to Phil Tester who compared and DJ’d the evening free of charge, staying late to ensure the music kept playing. The venue, The Pear Tree Club in Rugeley, also kindly donated the room at no cost, with Mark Eustice providing exceptional support throughout. AJ Pillkington Photography generously offered their time to capture the event’s best moments.

The event raised an incredible £510 which will contribute to Grace Cares’ campaign to fund a part-time, two-person van crew for 12 months. The charity’s van is a vital part of its mission, collecting unwanted care equipment from NHS Trusts, care homes and community members, and ensuring it’s reused rather than sent to landfill.

Grace Cares Van Project

To date, the Grace Cares van project has:

Saved over 2,300 pieces of care equipment from landfill, including 770 through a partnership with Staffordshire County Council
Provided support to more than 1,800 people, including hardship grants and access to affordable equipment

“The van is so much more than a vehicle, it’s a lifeline,” said Hannah Montgomery, co-founder of Grace Cares. “It connects us with healthcare partners, care homes, and families in need. We’re incredibly grateful to Rebecca and everyone involved in Green Groovy. Events like these help us keep this vital work on the road.”

Each week, the Grace Cares van:

Visits NHS and care settings
Collects unwanted care equipment for second-life use
Rescues items from landfill
Supports the health and care workforce, older people, and the planet

Grace Cares is encouraging others to get involved. Whether by donating, volunteering, or hosting a fundraising event, every action helps extend the reach and impact of their work.

For more information, please contact:
Grace Cares
📞 01543 730189
📧 hello@grace-cares.com
🌐 www.grace-cares.com

Picture shows belly dancing group Sisters of Tribellica.

Innovation and Impact: Grace Cares Partners with the University of Birmingham for Impact Challenge 2025

Grace Cares, the award-winning not-for-profit based in Lichfield, was honoured to be one of just nine organisations invited to take part in the University of Birmingham’s Impact Challenge 2025. The week-long programme offers penultimate and final-year Birmingham Scholars a unique opportunity to collaborate with forward-thinking employers and tackle real-world business challenges with social impact at their core.

Over 50 students participated in this year’s challenge, each choosing to work alongside a business that aligned with their interests and values. Designed to foster innovation, the Impact Challenge connects the next generation of changemakers with purpose-driven organisations, and the results speak for themselves.

A Successful Collaboration

Grace Cares welcomed a team of six talented students to help develop creative ideas for their next intergenerational campaign. This is a key strand of the charity’s mission to build stronger, more connected communities.

Marketing Executive Karanjeet Basran reflected on the experience:

“The Impact Challenge was a brilliant success, not only for the students, but for us too. The group came up with thoughtful, values-driven campaign ideas rooted in care, sustainability and social impact. It was inspiring to see their passion and energy.”

Davi Walker, the Challenge lead at the University of Birmingham, praised the students’ commitment:

“I was incredibly proud of what the students achieved. Their professionalism, creativity and teamwork were outstanding. The outcomes and feedback across all the employer partners were truly inspirational. It was a fantastic week.”

Student Abbi Wood, who worked with the Grace Cares group, said:

“From the first day hearing the brief to presenting our ideas at the end of the week, the whole experience was amazing. We learnt so much, felt supported throughout, and the Grace Cares team’s enthusiasm was contagious. I can’t wait to see the Ageless Icon campaign idea come to life.”

Get Involved

If you’re interested in volunteering, gaining work experience, or collaborating on future campaigns, the Grace Cares team would love to hear from you.

📧 Email: hello@grace-cares.com
📞 Phone: 01543 730189
🌐 Visit: www.grace-cares.com

L-R – Tasnim Mahfuz, Abbi Wood, Olivia Hill, Karanjeet Basran, Ayyub Rahman, Yuen Ting and Zeba Hussain.

Grace Cares and Staffordshire County Council’s Medicycle Scheme Named Finalist for National Recycling Awards

Grace Cares and Staffordshire County Council are thrilled to announce that their innovative Medicycle scheme has been nominated as a finalist for the prestigious Campaign of the Year Award at this year’s National Recycling Awards. The Medicycle initiative, which focuses on recycling pre-loved care equipment, is up against strong competition, including Veolia, Serco, and Sandwell Council.

Medicycle, a partnership between Grace Cares and Staffordshire County Council, aims to give unwanted care items such as walking aids, bathroom equipment, profiling beds, rise and recline chairs and commodes a new lease on life. These items can be donated at any of Staffordshire’s 13 household waste recycling centres. Grace Cares then takes on the responsibility of cleaning, repairing, and refurbishing the equipment to ensure that it is safe and ready for someone new to use.

Emma Smith, Co-Founder at Grace Cares, commented: “We are delighted to be partnering with Staffordshire County Council on this fantastic initiative. It not only supports a valuable service for individuals who might otherwise struggle to afford these items but also makes a significant impact on reducing waste. By diverting perfectly usable equipment from landfill, we are helping the environment and making a difference in people’s lives.”

The Medicycle scheme is more than just recycling; it is about building a greener future and making care sustainable. By keeping usable equipment out of landfills, the initiative supports Staffordshire County Council’s broader environmental goals, including the commitment to becoming net zero by 2050.

Gemma Wall, Waste Minimisation Project Support Officer at Staffordshire County Council, added: “We believe that even small changes, like this recycling initiative, can make a big difference. Medicycle is just one of the many ways we are working towards a more sustainable future. The nomination for the National Recycling Awards is a testament to the hard work of everyone involved and the positive impact of this scheme.”

Both Grace Cares and Staffordshire County Council express their gratitude for the support of the local community and encourage everyone to continue donating any unwanted care aids to the collection points. It’s a simple yet powerful way to contribute to the well-being of others and the health of our planet.

CASS Doubles Impact at Grace Cares’ Pimp My Ride Event

At Grace Cares, we believe in the power of community, creativity, and collaboration to drive meaningful change. Our recent Pimp My Ride VIP launch at The Hub at St Mary’s was a shining example of these values in action, bringing together local talent, generous supporters, and a shared commitment to reducing waste and promoting sustainability.

Transforming Waste into Art

The event was a unique celebration of creativity, with local schools and colleges participating in a one-of-a-kind project to transform Zimmer Frames into beautiful works of art. These frames, which might have otherwise ended up in landfill, were given new life through the skill and imagination of the students. Their incredible designs not only showcased their artistic abilities but also aligned perfectly with Grace Cares’ mission to repurpose and redistribute care equipment.

The evening was made even more special by the presence of Paul Barnes, Managing Director of Cloud Accounting Support Services (CASS), our bookkeeping support. Paul joined over 140 attendees in voting for his favourite design, helping to support the budding talent of local students and the broader mission of Grace Cares.

A Generous Gesture

A highlight of the night was our charity raffle, which successfully raised £600. However, the generosity didn’t stop there. In a heartwarming gesture, CASS decided to match the amount raised, doubling the total to an impressive £1,200. This contribution will go a long way in helping us continue our work of saving care equipment from landfill and ensuring it reaches those in need.

“We are incredibly thankful to Team CASS for their generosity,” said Hannah Montgomery, co-founder of Grace Cares. “Their matching donation not only boosts our funds but also shows the power of businesses coming together to support important causes. Together, we are making a real difference.”

A Night to Remember

For all of us at Grace Cares, the Pimp My Ride VIP launch was about more than just fundraising; it was about bringing our community together to celebrate creativity, sustainability, and shared values. The room was filled with energy and enthusiasm, with each attendee playing a part in the success of the evening.

Paul Barnes of CASS expressed his pride in being part of the event: “I’m proud to have been a part of this event and to have witnessed firsthand the incredible impact Grace Cares is making. At CASS, we believe in going beyond traditional client support, and this was a perfect example of how we can make a difference together.”

As we reflect on the success of the Pimp My Ride VIP launch, we are filled with gratitude for the support we have received from CASS and everyone who attended. Your contributions, whether through donations or simply by being present, have helped us take another step towards achieving our mission.

We look forward to continuing our journey with you, our community, as we work together to create a more sustainable future. Thank you for being the change you want to see.

Staffordshire County Council Partners with Grace Cares

“We’re delighted to be partnering with Grace Cares to recycle pre-loved care and medical equipment, giving usable items a new lease of life and helping those in need.

Unwanted items can be donated at the collection points in any of our 14 household waste recycling centres. Typical items donated include walking aids, bathroom equipment, bed risers and commodes.

Grace Cares clean, repair, and refurbish the equipment as needed, ensuring it’s safe and ready for someone new to use.

This not only helps individuals who might otherwise struggle to afford these items, but it also keeps perfectly usable equipment out of landfill, benefiting the environment for everyone.

This is just one of many ways we’re working towards a greener future.

We believe that even small changes, like this recycling initiative, can make a big difference. Together, by doing our bit, we can achieve our goal of becoming net zero by 2050. Any unwanted care aids on loan should be returned to the provider.”

For more information please see Staffordshire County Council’s website.

Be The Change You Want To See ♻️💚

Volunteer Opportunity: Customer Care and Admin Support for Grace Cares Pre-Loved Care Equipment

Position:

Customer Care and Admin Support Volunteer

Location:

Grace Cares Hub 💚 Unit 2 the Portal, Elmhurst Business Park, Elmhurst, Lichfield WS13 8EX

Commitment:

Flexible hours, no minimum hours per week. We are open Monday-Friday 10am-3pm so you could do any time to suit you within those days and hours.

About Us:

Grace Cares is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for individuals who need care and support. We provide pre-loved care equipment to those in need, promoting sustainability and affordability. Our mission is to create a positive impact daily by serving our community, supporting Health and Social Care nationwide and championing sustainability. Our core values underpin everything we do:

Care: Care is at the heart of everything we do
Accessibility: Including providing affordable, safe, and accessible care equipment.
Respect: Demonstrating empathy and respect to all, valuing their unique needs and circumstances.
Environmental Commitment: Promoting sustainability through recycling, reusing, refusing, repurposing, repairing, and reducing waste in all our operations, while supporting health and social care providers in their sustainability journey.
Social Impact: Empowering our tribe, customers, and community through collaborative donations and initiatives to foster positive social change.

Role Overview:

We are seeking enthusiastic and compassionate volunteers to join the Grace Cares tribe as Customer Care and Admin Support at our pre-loved care equipment shop. This role is perfect for individuals who enjoy interacting with people, have a knack for sales, and possess a genuine desire to help others. Additionally, you will assist with administrative tasks, including photographing stock and conducting online searches for product details.

Key Responsibilities:

Assist customers in finding suitable pre-loved care equipment.
Provide information about the benefits and usage of various care items.
Maintain the organisation and cleanliness of the product area.
Handle transactions and manage the cash register.
Help in setting up displays and promoting new arrivals.
Photograph and catalogue stock items for online listings. We will provide training and equipment.
Conduct online searches for product information and updates.
Support with general administrative tasks as needed.

Ideal Candidate:

A warm, approachable, and empathetic individual.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
Basic understanding of care equipment and its importance.
Enthusiastic about sustainability and helping the community.
Comfortable using a computer, or willing to learn with provided training.
Reliable, punctual, and trustworthy.
Experience in retail, customer service, or admin work is a plus, but not required.

Benefits:

You’ll get a Grace Cares t-shirt and hoody.
There are always drinks, snacks and food at the hub.
You’ll be invited to all of our events and training.
Opportunity to make a tangible difference in people’s lives.
Gain experience in customer service, sales, and administrative tasks.
Be a part of a supportive and passionate tribe.
Flexible volunteering hours to fit your schedule.
Develop new skills and build connections within the community.
Tailored role to match your strengths and interests for the right fit within the Grace Cares tribe.

How to Apply:

If you’re excited about this opportunity to support Grace Cares and contribute to our mission, please contact Hannah and Emma at hello@grace-cares.com or call 01543 730189.

Grace Cares is committed to diversity and inclusion. We encourage individuals of all backgrounds, ages and experiences to apply.

Thank you for considering volunteering with Grace Cares. Your time and effort can create a positive impact on countless lives.

Be The Change You Want To See ♻️💚

Grace Cares, a Lichfield-based not-for-profit organisation, proudly hosted the VIP launch of its groundbreaking intergenerational art exhibition, “Pimp My Ride,” on 27th June at The Hub at St Mary’s in the centre of Lichfield. This unique exhibition aimed to highlight the issue of waste in care through the creative transformation of zimmer frames by local students. The event drew an impressive crowd of over 130 attendees, including Tony Christie, Mayor of Lichfield, Leader of Lichfield District Council, Leader of Lichfield City Council, students, older adults supported by Grace Cares, care providers, corporate sponsors, health and social care professionals, local businesses, councilors, and friends and family.

The “Pimp My Ride” exhibition featured 11 zimmer frames artistically revamped by students from Landau Forte QEMS, South Staffordshire College, The Bridge, Liberty Jamboree, Bishop Vesey’s Grammar School, King Edward VI School, and Staffordshire Youth Union. Each exhibit provided a unique commentary on waste and sustainability, showcasing the students’ creativity and dedication.

The exhibition received media attention, being featured on ITV’s Good Morning Britain and ITV Central News programmes, further amplifying its reach and impact.

Grace Cares’ co-founder, Hannah Montgomery, opened the event with a heartfelt speech, emphasising the project’s dual mission of promoting sustainability and raising awareness about waste in care. “The thoughts and efforts behind each of these zimmer frames are truly inspiring,” said Hannah Montgomery. “This exhibition not only raises awareness about waste in care but also demonstrates the incredible potential of creative solutions.”

Following the VIP launch, the exhibition was opened to the general public, who were invited to cast their votes for their favorite zimmer frame until Tuesday 2nd July. The response was overwhelming, with over 270 people participating in the voting process. The competition was close, but exhibit 10 titled “The Chariot” by students at South Staffordshire College, emerged as the winner. This zimmer frame captivated the audience and earned its creators the top prize of £200, generously donated by Top Cashback.

In addition to the prize money, the top six exhibits will be featured in the first ever Sustainability Zone at The Care Show, the UK’s largest health and social care event, taking place at the NEC on October 9-10th. Here, health and social care workers will have the opportunity to vote for the ultimate “pimped up ride,” with another £200 prize up for grabs sponsored by Attis Care by Attis Insurance Brokers. The aim is to show the students the many facets working in health and social care has to offer and further the conversation about sustainability and innovation in care.

Grace Cares extends its deepest gratitude to the students, teachers, community partners, sponsors, the public and supporters who made this exhibition possible. Special thanks are due to the national media outlets that covered the event, helping to spread the message far and wide.

For more information about the “Pimp My Ride” exhibition, to get involved in or sponsor the Pimp Our Ride 2025 campaign or to learn more about Grace Cares’ initiatives, please visit www.grace-cares.com or contact hello@grace-cares.com or 01543 730189.