Fundraising is back in fashion at Speedwell Court

Speedwell Court care home in Southampton kicked off Abbeyfield’s 70th anniversary year with a vintage and second-hand clothing market.

With the funds raised split between Speedwell Court and two other charities, the event was part of the home’s commitment to holding events for the benefit of the entire community, not just their residents.

Working in partnership with Eastleigh Rotary Club and Blue Angel Care – who helped spread the word widely, gathered donations, and provided several essential extra pairs of hands to help on the day – Speedwell Court welcomed over 60 visitors through their doors.

The home’s Customer Relations Manager, Justine Owen, said, “We were thrilled to raise a total of £550.70, meaning we and our partners’ chosen charities – Alzheimer’s Society and Mountbatten Hampshire – each received £183.56. It is wonderful to feel we are contributing to ALS and other community charities during such a significant anniversary year.
“A huge thank you must also go to our volunteers, as well as the staff who kindly lent clothing rails, mirrors for the changing room, and their time to help on the day.

“We had a great mix of young and old people come to the market, and many of them asked if we could hold similar events in the future – watch this space!”

Meanwhile, a wonderfully creative Speedwell Court resident, Fay Wicks, raised an impressive £91.50 for Naomi House & Jacksplace by handcrafting and selling beautiful Christmas tree ornaments at the end of last year.

Fay cleverly upcycled used medication pots, transforming them into glittering Christmas bells, which she sold to delighted staff, residents’ families and visitors alike.  Speedwell Court generously topped up her fundraising to bring the total donation to £150.

Naomi House & Jacksplace is a hospice providing care and support for seriously ill children, young adults and their families, and is a charity close to Fay’s heart, with her having known families affected by childhood illness.

Fay credits Speedwell Court with helping her rediscover her creativity. After the loss of her husband and challenges with her hands that made crafting difficult, she had stopped making things altogether.

“When I came here, I was encouraged to start again,” she says. “Speedwell Court has saved my life. My friends said they’ve never seen me looking so well.

“It’s brought me back to life, coming here.”

A member of Naomi House & Jacksplace’s fundraising team recently visited Fay at Speedwell Court, where she and the staff her presented them with a novelty cheque.