Oxford care home residents create wearable hug T-shirts

The event took place at Chawley Grove Care Home on Cumnor Hill and brought together residents, care team members, and friends to share heartfelt compliments and creativity.

The T-shirts were made by painting each participant’s arms and then giving a warm embrace to transfer the design onto the shirt, creating a ‘wearable hug’.

Penny Jones, 81, a resident at the home, said: “My friend Maureen looks after me, and I only met her when we moved in together.

“She always makes sure I get home to bed, and it’s nice to spend fun times with each other.

“Emese takes good care of me and my friends, she always makes us laugh and I like her smile.”

Maureen Hayle, 87, another resident, spoke fondly of florist Steven Wheeler.

She said: “We love seeing our friend, Steven.

“He helps us make flowers for our rooms, and he usually wears a costume that makes us laugh.

“He is a kind man, and we are glad he comes to see us.”

Mr Wheeler returned the sentiment.

He said: “I can honestly say, I have never spent such special times with a lady so full of life and energy.

“Maureen’s infectious smile helps to make everyone around her happy, and we just love her.”

Chawley Grove Care Home is part of Hamberley Care Homes, which was named Residential Care Provider of the Year at the 2022 HealthInvestor Awards.