Richard Winterton Auctioneers Partners with Grace Cares to Support Sustainable Care and Community Impact

Richard Winterton Auctioneers has announced a new partnership with Grace Cares, a not-for-profit organisation on a mission to make care more sustainable – not just for the environment, but for the people at the heart of it all.

The family firm carries out around a dozen house clearances each week across the area and holds weekly sales at The Lichfield Auction Centre, featuring hundreds of lots. Going forward, care equipment sourced through these clearances will be donated to Grace Cares, where it will be rescued, refurbished, and rehomed to help those who need it most, rather than ending up in landfill.

This partnership aligns both organisations around shared values of reuse, dignity, and community care. It’s a commitment to play it forward: giving care items a second life while creating real social impact for older people, unpaid caregivers, and care providers across the UK.

“The auction world revolves around recycling in one way or another,” said Tom Winterton, auctioneer and associate director at Richard Winterton Auctioneers. “Buying and selling under the hammer ultimately prevents a huge amount of potential waste through reuse, upcycling, and restoration. We regularly come across care equipment that could still make a real difference to someone’s life. This partnership ensures that nothing goes to waste, and everything goes to those who need it. There is tremendous synergy with Grace Cares and we couldn’t be happier with this partnership.”

Grace Cares’ Vision: A world where…

Older people live with dignity, independence, and access to the tools they need
Unpaid caregivers feel empowered, supported, and never alone
Care is kinder to the planet through reuse and a circular care economy
Communities come together to build a more inclusive, sustainable future

This partnership supports Grace Cares’ bold long-term ambition: to help 1 million people through sustainable care equipment and social support.

“Richard Winterton Auctioneers joining our network is a brilliant example of local businesses stepping up to create real change,” said Hannah Montgomery, Founder of Grace Cares. “Together, we’re proving that care can be circular, community-driven, and full of compassion.”

How Grace Cares Makes a Difference

Pre-loved care equipment – Rescuing, refurbishing, and reselling essential items affordably, keeping them out of landfill
Support for older people – Helping people live with dignity and independence by improving access to the tools and equipment they need
Caregiver support programmes – Practical resources, advice, and a growing network of support for unpaid caregivers, delivered through dedicated specialists
Support for care providers – Providing affordable equipment and ESG guidance to help services reduce waste and demonstrate environmental leadership
Community action – Powered by volunteers, local partnerships, and people who care about making a difference
Proven social impact – For every £1 invested, Grace Cares creates £4–7 in social, economic, and environmental value

At a time when the UK’s 5.7 million unpaid carers are saving the economy £162 billion each year – often without adequate support – this partnership helps ensure that vital equipment reaches those who truly need it.

L-R Richard Winterton, Adam Harrison and Lawerence Smith, Grace Cares, Tom Winterton

Grace Cares and Browne Jacobson Unite to Drive Sustainability in Social Care

Midlands-based not-for-profit Grace Cares has secured new support from UK and Ireland law firm Browne Jacobson to help expand its innovative Circular Care Crew project. This sustainability-led initiative rescues, refurbishes and redistributes pre-loved care equipment to those who need it most.

The partnership will allow Grace Cares to significantly increase its reach across Staffordshire and the West Midlands, areas served by both organisations. The funding comes at a crucial time as demand for the service continues to grow, driven by rising costs of care equipment and a growing awareness of environmental responsibility within the health and social care sectors.

Founded in 2023, Grace Cares has already diverted more than 2,500 pieces of care equipment from landfill, supported over 3,500 individuals and care providers, and formed partnerships with five NHS Trusts, local authorities, and community groups. Its van, introduced in 2024 with support from the Aviva Environmental Impact Award, now travels the region collecting and delivering items that would otherwise go to waste.

The van was recently given a new look as part of the organisation’s 2025 Intergenerational Campaign, featuring student-designed artwork on themes of kindness, sustainability, and care. It was unveiled at the historic Lichfield Bower procession and now serves as a mobile symbol of climate and community action.

Grace Cares Co-founder Hannah Montgomery said the new partnership with Browne Jacobson marks a significant milestone for the organisation.

“Browne Jacobson’s support will help us take the next step in scaling our impact. This project is not just about equipment. It’s about independence, dignity and supporting health and care systems in a more sustainable way.”

The Circular Care Crew offers an environmentally and socially conscious alternative to landfill, supplying mobility aids and care equipment at significantly reduced prices (often less than half the retail cost) while also creating job opportunities and reducing barriers for housebound individuals.

Browne Jacobson made the donation of £2,980 via the Browne Jacobson Charitable Trust (BJCT), which has donated more than £170,000 to 129 charities since 2018.

The BJCT is funded by a contribution from the Browne Jacobson partnership to provide small donations to local charities in the local communities near to its offices. It prioritises supporting causes that are important to Browne Jacobson employees, who must be involved with or have a strong connection to the charity.

Browne Jacobson associate Kyleigh Bland, who supported the bid, said: “The Browne Jacobson Charitable Trust reflects our firm’s commitment to supporting our communities and tackling some of society’s biggest issues, a core value of our firm.

“With its genuine community impact and commitment to environmental responsibility, Grace Cares is exactly the type of initiative we are passionate about supporting.

“The fact that it specifically targets the health and care sector is also important to us as this aligns with one of our specialist areas. We look forward to seeing how this partnership helps the charity to scale its impact.”

In recognition of the partnership, Grace Cares has also invited the legal firm’s staff to get involved through volunteering and outreach.

Since its launch, Grace Cares has won multiple national awards for its sustainability and innovation, including recognition from Aviva, the Social Care Leadership Awards and Lichfield District Council.

With the Circular Care Crew poised to double its throughput over the next year, this new chapter is set to bring lasting benefits to individuals, communities, and the planet alike.

L-R – Lawrence Smith, Adam Harrison, Emma Smith from Grace Cares

For further information, interviews or images, contact: Hannah Montgomery Co-founder, Grace Cares CIC 📧 hello@grace-cares.com 🌐 www.grace-cares.com

Ontex Partners with Grace Cares to Launch ‘Carer Connect’: A New Initiative to Support the Nation’s Unpaid Carers

Ontex, a leading global provider of personal hygiene products, is proud to partner with Grace Cares. They are looking to launch Carer Connect a new initiative dedicated to understanding and supporting the millions of unpaid carers across the UK.

At the heart of Carer Connect is a nationwide consultation, led by Vicki Marshall. Vicki recently joined Grace Cares in a newly created part-time role, part-funded by Ontex. Drawing on over two decades of NHS experience and a personal passion for community wellbeing, Vicki has led both a wide-reaching survey and a series of face-to-face listening sessions with unpaid carers. She has also reached out to local support networks, councils and the Carers Trust.

“Unpaid carers are often the invisible support holding families and communities together,” said Vicki. “Many don’t even recognise themselves as carers, they’re simply looking after someone they love. But they deserve to be recognised, respected, and supported.”

The findings from this consultation are now being compiled into a white paper of recommendations called Caring by Love, not by Pay: Stories and solutions from unpaid carers. This will shape the foundation of Carer Connect’s first support offer later this year.

Unpaid carers play a critical yet under-supported role in society. According to Carers UK, there are an estimated 5.7 million unpaid carers in the UK, contributing care worth around £132 billion annually. That is the equivalent of a second NHS. Yet many go without access to even the most basic support or recognition.

“Partnering with Ontex has given us the opportunity to truly listen,” said Hannah Montgomery, Co-Founder of Grace Cares. “Carer Connect is about more than resources – it’s about building a movement. We want unpaid carers to feel seen, valued, and supported, not left to carry the weight in silence.”

Michelle Garvey, Marketing Manager (UK Healthcare) at Ontex, added:
“Supporting unpaid carers aligns perfectly with our mission to make everyday life easier for people of all generations. Grace Cares brings real innovation and compassion to the table, and we’re proud to stand behind a project that’s both practical and impactful.”

Want to Get Involved?

If you’re an unpaid carer, are an organisation who already offers support or signposting to help unpaid carers, or if you’d like to support the Carer Connect initiative, we’d love to hear from you. Please get in touch via:

📧 hello@grace-cares.com
📞 01543 730189

About Grace Cares

Grace Cares is a Lichfield-based not-for-profit making care more sustainable through Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles. The organisation rescues care equipment from landfill and resells it affordably, using profits to support older people, care workers, and families through events, hardship grants, and sustainability programmes.

About Ontex

Ontex is a global provider of personal hygiene solutions, offering trusted products in baby care, feminine hygiene, and adult incontinence care. With a commitment to sustainable innovation, Ontex develops quality solutions that improve everyday life while making a positive impact on communities worldwide.

Pictured L-R – Hannah Montgomery, Grace Cares – Michelle Garvey, Ontex – Vicki Marshall, Grace Cares

Golden Moments: A delightful afternoon tea for our over 70s community

Grace Cares warmly invites local over 70s and their loved ones to a delightful afternoon tea party on Sunday 20th July 3-5pm. This will be at the Grace Cares Hub on Elmhurst Business Park. This is a great afternoon in a relaxed environment where smiles are wide and conversations are free flowing.

We also have the lovely Dagmar and John from the Common Threads Project joining the Grace Cares tribe. They will be helping attendees to do some crafting, making it a really special day.

What to Expect

A selection of cakes and sandwiches
Arts and crafts with the lovely Dagmar and John
Friendly faces and new acquaintances
A warm and welcoming space where every guest feels special

This afternoon tea party is a way to show appreciation to the over 70s within our community who have seen so much, shared so much and still have much to give.

“We want to offer a joyful and welcoming space for our guests – a proper treat of an afternoon filled with tea, cake, creativity and conversation,” says Hannah Montgomery, Co-Founder of Grace Cares. “We’re thrilled to welcome Dagmar and John from the Common Threads Project to this special edition of our tea party on 20th July, and we hope it’s the start of something even bigger as we look to grow our monthly gatherings.”

Get Involved

If you’re interested in joining the tea party, it is free to attend but spaces are limited. Please book to avoid disappointment by filling in the google form (https://forms.gle/i4C55nG23iejjbha8) or calling the Grace Cares Hub on 01543 730 189.

Picture shows our recent afternoon tea party.

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 Volunteers Receive Mental Wellbeing Training as Part of Volunteer Week Thank You

As part of this year’s Volunteer Week 2025 celebrations, Grace Cares was proud to host a special training session focused on mental wellbeing, delivered by Amanda Jackson from Beacon Mental Health Training – who generously offered her time and expertise as a charitable donation.

Amanda delivered a powerful and practical session to Grace Cares’ dedicated team of volunteers, focusing on tools to support emotional resilience, confidence in supporting others, and self-care. The session was followed by a relaxed thank you lunch to celebrate the incredible work volunteers do all year round.

“Volunteers are often the quiet heroes supporting everyone else,” said Amanda. “It’s essential that they feel supported too. I was delighted to be invited to work with such a compassionate, community-focused team – and to give something back during Volunteer Week.”

Volunteering has well-known mental health benefits. According to the NCVO, 77% of volunteers say it improves their mental wellbeing, offering a sense of purpose, community and connection.

At Grace Cares, volunteers are at the heart of everything – from collecting and cleaning care equipment to hosting companionship tea parties, delivering sustainability workshops, and helping with behind-the-scenes logistics.

“We simply couldn’t do what we do without our volunteers,” said Pippa Moor, Community Engagement and Volunteer Lead at Grace Cares. “Amanda’s session was exactly what our team needed – uplifting, informative, and full of heart. It’s been a joy to celebrate our volunteers this week and remind them how much they’re valued.”

Grace Cares supports the over 70’s through sustainable care initiatives and community wellbeing programmes. To find out more about volunteering or to get involved, visit www.grace-cares.com, call 01543 730189 or email hello@grace-cares.com.

BE THE CHANGE YOU WANT TO SEE 💚♻️

📚 Business, Books & Big Impact: Chamber Committee Rallies to Support Charity of the Year Grace Cares

The Lichfield & Tamworth Chamber of Commerce committee is on a mission to make a difference – and they’re calling on the local business community to help. Their next event, Business, Books & Big Impact, promises an evening of networking with purpose, as the Chamber throws its full support behind its Charity of the Year, Grace Cares.

📅 Date: Monday 30th June
⏰ Time: 6.30–8.30pm
📍 Venue: PI-KEM, Unit 18, Tame Valley Business Centre, Wilnecote, Tamworth B77 5BY

This unique Chamber event brings together local businesses to connect over a shared commitment to supporting the local community, older people, their families – and the planet.

The highlight of the evening is the launch of the Grace Cares Sustainable Bookshop – a creative and eco-conscious fundraising initiative designed to raise vital funds to keep the charity’s community van on the road.

🚛 Why the Van Matters

Grace Cares rescues pre-loved care equipment from landfill and redistributes it to people in need across Staffordshire and beyond. Their community van is the backbone of this operation – visiting NHS Trusts and care homes, chatting with staff and residents, and collecting equipment that can be given a second life.

So far, the charity has helped over 1,500 people and saved more than 2,000 pieces of equipment from landfill. But with previous volunteer drivers now unable to continue due to health reasons, Grace Cares urgently needs funding to pay a dedicated crew. The Chamber committee has pledged to raise £5,000 to cover six months of van operations – half of the total annual cost.

📖 What to Expect on the Night

Guests are encouraged to bring:

A favourite book to use as a conversation starter
Extra pre-loved or inspiring books to donate
A willingness to get involved – from hosting book boxes in offices or coffee shops to helping with printing, fundraising, or logistics

The Grace Cares Sustainable Bookshop will stock these donated books in local venues, raising ongoing funds while promoting community sharing and sustainability.

Attendees can enjoy relaxed networking, a warm Chamber welcome, and the chance to make a tangible difference to people’s lives – all over a bite to eat (catering details to be confirmed).

💬 Chamber President Fiona Rouse said:

“The Lichfield & Tamworth Chamber is proud to stand behind Grace Cares and their inspiring mission to make care sustainable. This initiative perfectly reflects the community spirit, innovation, and social responsibility our local businesses are known for. I encourage every Chamber member to get involved – whether by donating a book or pledging support for the van, together we can create real impact.”

💬 Grace Cares Co-founder Hannah Montgomery added:

“This is more than a fundraiser – it’s a movement to make care more sustainable, more connected, and more community-driven. With the Chamber’s support, we can reach more people, save more equipment from landfill, and build a future where care and sustainability go hand in hand.”

🎯 Let’s Hit These Targets Together:

£1,000 = 1 month of van support
£2,500 = 3 months covered
£5,000 = Chamber goal: 6 months secured
£10,000 = A full year funded

🎟️ Book your place now

Don’t miss this chance to connect with fellow businesses, give back, and be part of a local movement with national impact.

Bring your books. Bring your ideas. Bring your community spirit.

BOOK (excuse the pun) Here: https://www.greaterbirminghamchambers.com/event-calendar/joint-chamber-social-networking-june25.html

BE THE CHANGE YOU WANT TO SEE 💚♻️

Grace Cares Expands Capacity to Double Impact Thanks to Local Business Support

Grace Cares, the Lichfield-based not-for-profit on a mission to make care more sustainable, has taken a major step forward in its mission to rescue care equipment from landfill and support more people in need. Thanks to the generous support of local businesses Oakland International and Rack Collapse Prevention a brand-new racking system has now been installed at the Grace Cares Hub at Elmhurst Business Park.

The new racking system will significantly increase the hub’s storage capacity, allowing Grace Cares to sort, store and redistribute more equipment safely and efficiently. It’s a vital part of the charity’s bold goal to double the amount of care equipment saved from landfill and double the number of people they currently support across the UK.

“This new racking system might not sound glamorous, but it’s a total game-changer for us,” said Emma Smith, Co-Founder of Grace Cares. “It means we can process and store more equipment, respond faster to those in need, and ultimately do more good. We’re so grateful to the brilliant local businesses who’ve made this possible – it’s a fantastic example of community collaboration for social and environmental impact.” She added “It is such a joy to see the difference it has made to the working areas for a wonderful volunteers, they love the new space”

The installation was made possible through donations and support from businesses that share Grace Cares’ commitment to sustainability and social responsibility.

Dean Attwell, Co-Founder of Oakland International, added: “Grace Cares is a perfect example of a purpose-led organisation doing vital work for the planet and people at a grassroots level. We believe in backing initiatives that create long-term positive impact, and it’s been brilliant to use our logistical and warehousing knowledge to support Grace Care’s next stage of growth.”

Grace Cares has already redistributed over 2,000 pieces of care equipment, supported over 1,500 people, and delivered vital wellbeing activities and hardship grants across the country. With the added capacity from the new racking system, the team is now in a stronger position to build on that momentum.

Craig Attwell, Managing Director of Rack Collapse Prevention, commented: “We’re proud to support Grace Cares in such a meaningful way. Their work makes a real difference to people’s lives while tackling the huge issue of waste in the care sector. Helping them expand their operations is something we’re honoured to be part of.”

Grace Cares continues to welcome support from individuals and businesses who want to help build a more sustainable, compassionate future for care – locally, nationally, and beyond.

BE THE CHANGE YOU WANT TO SEE 💚♻️

Grace Cares Unveils Winning Student Van Design at Lichfield Bower – A Celebration of Creativity, Community and Care

Local students recognised for their role in national design campaign supporting sustainability and social care

Lichfield-based not-for-profit Grace Cares is proud to celebrate the success of its second intergenerational ‘Pimp Our Ride’ creative competition, with the winning design now proudly featured on the back doors of the Grace Cares van.

The campaign invited students of all ages and abilities to design a graphic inspired by kindness, sustainability, and health and social care. After receiving 37 entries from across the country, the top 9 finalists were judged by a panel made up of older people supported by Grace Cares and care providers nationwide.

The winning design, created by Imogen from South Staffordshire College, was unveiled at the Lichfield Bower on 26th May, where it was seen for the first time on the Grace Cares van during the procession. The van will now be used to collect and redistribute care equipment across the UK.

🏆 The final results:

1st Place – Imogen, South Staffordshire College
2nd Place – Saxon Hill Academy
3rd Place – Landau Forte QEMS
People’s Choice Award – King Edward VI School
(winning the public vote with over 260 votes for their design)

“This campaign was a joyful blend of creativity, connection and community,” said Grace Cares Co-founder Hannah Montgomery. “It gave students the chance to use their talents to celebrate values we live by every day – care, sustainability, and social impact. The unveiling at the Bower was the perfect celebration.”

Fiona Rouse, President of Lichfield & Tamworth Chamber of Commerce, added:
“As a former teacher, I know how powerful creative opportunities like this can be in helping young people feel seen, valued, and connected to their community. It was an honour to present the award to Imogen and support Grace Cares – our Charity of the Year – in such a meaningful, intergenerational initiative that brings real visibility to important social and environmental issues.”

Grace Cares would like to thank all participating students, schools, and judges – especially the older people and care professionals whose voices shaped the final decision.

To learn more about Grace Cares and their mission to make care sustainable ore register your interest in being part of the next intergenerational campaign, visit: www.grace-cares.com

📸 Image show the winning student Imogen being presented with a certificate and novelty cheque for £100 by the President of Lichfield & Tamworth Chamber of Commerce during a special presentation ceremony.

L-R – Fiona Rouse, Lichfield and Tamworth Chamber President, Imogen Daws and Helen Plester from South Staffordshire College and Hannah Montgomery Grace Cares.