Guest Panel Discussion on Financial Advice. Online Care Club, Wed 21st Oct, 9.30-10.15. Register - It's free

Tag: care items

Grace Cares Celebrates Two Years With Bold Vision For The Future

Grace Cares, Lichfield’s innovative care equipment recycling charity, is marking its second anniversary with impressive milestones and exciting new initiatives. Having supported over 1,500 people whilst saving more than 1,000 pieces of vital care equipment from landfill, the charity is embarking on its next chapter.

The anniversary celebrations culminated in a community quiz night at the Guildhall, expertly hosted by Tom from Pineapple Quizzes. The event brought together service users, local business owners, residents, and civic dignitaries including the Mayor and Sheriff, highlighting the charity’s deep roots within the community.

Racking

With funds raised, Grace Cares is implementing new racking solutions at its unit to increase storage capacity and equipment preservation capabilities. This infrastructure upgrade will enable Grace Cares to rescue and redistribute even more essential care equipment to those in need.

Unpaid Carer Support Job Role

In a significant development, the charity is looking to create its first part-time position, focusing specifically on supporting unpaid carers. “Unpaid carers are the unsung heroes keeping our health and social care system afloat,” says Hannah Montgomery, Co-Founder at Grace Cares. “This new role will help us develop targeted resources and support networks for these vital community members.”

Work Experience

Grace Cares is also strengthening its academic partnerships, collaborating with Aston University and the University of Birmingham on work experience projects and competitions. Their latest intergenerational initiative, “Pimp Our Ride,” invites students of all ages and abilities to submit artwork by the 11th April for the chance to win £100 and have their design featured on the Grace Cares van. The winning entry will be unveiled at this year’s Lichfield Bower Procession in May.

“From volunteers giving their time to local residents sharing our message, every contribution has helped someone access essential care equipment, support and grants,” adds Emma Smith, “These new developments will help us build on this foundation and create an even stronger support network for our community.”

For more information about Grace Cares or to get involved, visit our volunteer page or contact hello@grace-cares.com or 01543 730189.

Grace Cares Wins New Business Award at WAGS 2024 for Transforming the Care Sector

Lichfield’s very own Grace Cares has been recognised on a national stage, winning the New Business Award at the Women Achieving Greatness (WAGS) Awards in London this November. The award celebrates dynamic women who have launched businesses or services within the last three years that have made a significant impact on their sector.

The judges praised Grace Cares for its transformative approach to the care sector, with a focus on Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles. Since its launch in February 2023, the organisation has rapidly grown, forming key partnerships, expanding operations, and boosting volunteer engagement. “Grace Cares has made remarkable strides in revolutionising the care sector… Their MediCycle initiative and the creation of the Sustainability Guide for Care Managers have made a tangible impact, making Grace Cares a standout leader in sustainable care,” the judges remarked.

Driving Change in the Care Sector
Grace Cares has become a pioneer in sustainable care, helping divert nearly 1,000 pieces of care equipment from landfill while supporting older people, their families, and care providers. The organisation’s MediCycle initiative, a partnership with Staffordshire County Council, has successfully redistributed vital care equipment across the community. Their Sustainability Guide for Care Managers offers actionable advice to care providers striving to adopt greener practices.

Call for Support
As Grace Cares continues to grow, the organisation is calling on individuals and care providers to support their mission by purchasing pre-loved care equipment. Every purchase helps fund their impactful initiatives, ensuring more older people and their families benefit from sustainable care solutions.

Hannah Montgomery, co-founder of Grace Cares, expressed her gratitude: “Winning this award is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the entire Grace Cares Tribe. Together, we’re proving that care can be both compassionate and sustainable.”

About Grace Cares:
Founded in Lichfield in 2023, Grace Cares is a multi-award-winning not-for-profit committed to making care sustainable through ESG principles. The organisation has helped over 1,000 people, supported local communities, and partnered with health and social care providers across the UK.

Grace Cares Honoured with ESG Leader Award at Social Care Leadership Awards in London

Grace Cares, the Lichfield-based not-for-profit organisation dedicated to making care more sustainable, has won the prestigious ESG Leader Award at the Social Care Leadership Awards in London this October. This accolade highlights the organisation’s dedication to redefining social care with a strong emphasis on sustainability, inclusivity, and social impact.

The award ceremony brought together outstanding social care leaders across the UK, recognising pioneering achievements that set new standards for the sector. Grace Cares stood out for its innovative approach, which includes partnerships with NHS Trusts, Staffordshire County Council, and care providers nationwide to reduce waste, rehome care equipment, and provide crucial social activities and support for older people.

In the proud award photo, Ron, Emma, Stefan, Denny, Pippa, Viv, and Hannah are seen holding the ESG Leader trophy alongside a winners’ banner, a moment that encapsulates the team’s passion and dedication to their mission. This award underscores Grace Cares’ success in fostering environmentally responsible care practices while delivering impactful social programmes that serve the community.

Emma Smith, a co-founder at Grace Cares, commented, “Winning this award is a testament to the hard work of our team and the enduring support of our partners. We’re dedicated to creating a sustainable future in care and are honoured to be recognised for our commitment to these values.”

Grace Cares is grateful for the support that enables such achievements and remains dedicated to making care sustainable.

Pioneering Sustainability Guide for Care Managers Unveiled at The Care Show NEC

Grace Cares, a not-for-profit leader in sustainability within the health and social care sector, has launched a groundbreaking Sustainability Guide for Care Managers alongside The Caring View to support care providers Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) journey. This first-of-its-kind guide is available in a free taster version, paperback, or eBook, and comes just as the sector prepares for new regulatory criteria in 2025, which will focus on environmental and sustainability practices in care.

Launch at The Care Show NEC
The guide was unveiled in a lively presentation featuring a barbershop quartet at The Care Show NEC on 9-10 October, the UK’s largest event for health and social care. Grace Cares also hosted the inaugural Sustainability Zone, showcasing innovative resources, including a collaboration with Veolia UK to highlight waste management in care. The launch generated significant buzz among care providers, industry leaders, and environmental advocates.

The Sustainability Guide: A Must-Have Resource
The Sustainability Guide for Care Managers: Did you Deliver Sustainable Care Today? equips care managers with the practical tools and strategies they need to navigate upcoming regulatory demands and strengthen their sustainability initiatives. Covering vital areas such as energy efficiency, waste management, ethical sourcing, and community engagement, the guide provides a clear, actionable roadmap for embedding ESG principles into daily operations.

With the regulator’s new inspection criteria arriving in 2025, this guide is an essential resource for care providers wanting to stay ahead of the curve. Those who adopt its strategies can position themselves as leaders in sustainable care, while also meeting regulatory requirements.

Why Care Providers Should Get Their Copy Now
As sustainability becomes a key focus for the care sector, this guide offers not just compliance, but the opportunity to enhance the quality of care, improve operational efficiency, and boost your organisation’s reputation. Whether you opt for the free taster version (which was sponsored by Attis Care by Attis Insurance Brokers) or the full guide in paperback or eBook, this resource provides everything you need to start making impactful changes today.

Highlights from The Care Show NEC
Beyond the guide launch, Grace Cares ran the national final of the Pimp My Ride campaign, where schools creatively upcycled mobility aids to promote sustainability. Their collaboration with Veolia also resulted in a thought-provoking art installation, showcasing the connection between sustainability and care.

As the care sector faces growing scrutiny on sustainability, the Sustainability Guide for Care Managers: Did you Deliver Sustainable Care Today? will be invaluable in helping providers lead the way in responsible, sustainable care. Click here to get your free taster or full copy of the guide today.

LET’S MAKE CARE SUSTAINABLE.

Majesticare Care Homes Quote:
“ESG can be daunting, but Grace Cares’ Sustainability Guide for Care Managers makes it simple to take actionable steps toward your sustainability goals. It’s packed with easy-to-digest advice on sustainable governance. Majesticare fully supports Grace Cares’ fantastic work and highly recommends grabbing a copy to kickstart your ESG journey!”

Care Talk Magazine – Editorial Team Quote:
“The Sustainability Guide for Care Managers is a go-to resource for sustainability in social care. Hannah and Mark have brilliantly distilled their expertise into a practical, easy-to-read handbook that helps care professionals move toward a greener, more sustainable future. A must-read for tackling the climate crisis and nurturing a healthier planet.”

Institute of Health and Social Care Management  Quote:
“This essential guide provides practical examples for care providers to reduce their environmental impact and integrate effective ESG strategies. It supports excellence in care, attracts top talent, ensures regulatory compliance, and strengthens the role of care providers as leaders in the push toward net zero.”

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.

“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. 

Triton Telecom Supports Grace Cares with Free Telephony Services as Charity of the Year

Triton Telecom, a leading provider of innovative telecommunication solutions, is proud to announce its partnership with Grace Cares, a midlands based not-for-profit dedicated to supporting health and social care, the local community and stopping care equipment going to landfill. As part of its corporate social responsibility initiatives, Triton Telecom has chosen Grace Cares as its Charity of the Year and will be offering comprehensive telephony services to support their mission.

Empowering Communities Through Connectivity

Grace Cares are creating a positive impact by serving their community, supporting Health and Social Care nationwide and championing sustainability. By offering free telephony services, Triton Telecom aims to enhance the communication infrastructure of Grace Cares, thereby enabling them to reach more people and streamline their operations.

“We are thrilled to partner with Grace Cares and support their incredible work,” said Dean Billington, Managing Director of Triton Telecom. “Effective communication is crucial for the success of any organisation. By providing free telephony services and support, we hope to empower Grace Cares to connect with those in need of care equipment and their support more efficiently and effectively.”

A Year of Impact

“Having reliable and advanced telephony services will make a huge difference in our ability to coordinate effort and provide ongoing support,” said Hannah Montgomery, co-founder of Grace Cares. “We are very grateful to Triton Telecom for their generosity and support.”

Building Stronger Communities Together

This partnership is a testament to Triton Telecom’s commitment to giving back to the community and supporting organisations that make a tangible difference in people’s lives. By collaborating with Grace Cares, Triton Telecom is not only providing essential services but also fostering a spirit of solidarity and community engagement.

About Triton Telecom

Triton Telecom is a premier provider of telecommunications solutions, offering a wide range of services including business phone systems, VoIP, and unified communications. With a focus on innovation and customer satisfaction, Triton Telecom delivers reliable and scalable solutions tailored to meet the unique needs of businesses across various industries.

For more information about Triton Telecom and their partnership with Grace Cares, please visit https://tritontelecom.co.uk or contact info@tritontelecom.co.uk