For many of us, Queen Elizabeth II has been the reigning monarch throughout our whole lives. She selflessly served our country with pride for 70 years and within this time, led us through some incredibly tough times. From post-war Britain to the coronavirus pandemic, our Queen was a symbol of reassurance and stability.
Over this period of National Mourning, the Excelcare family has joined thousands of others across the country in paying their respects and honouring the life of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, in their 32 care homes as well as in their Support and 4 Regional Offices.
Living in many of their homes are people who have witnessed the reign of Queen Elizabeth from the day of her coronation over 70 years ago, until the day she very sadly passed away at Balmoral Castle. These people were lucky enough to know The Queen for much longer than most of us, with some receiving cards, awards, and medals from the Queen for their service or lifetime achievements.
From the moment the news was announced, Excelcare provided support and comfort to the people living in their homes and their colleagues through a variety of different methods, and they continue to do so. At some of their homes, there have been reminiscence sessions and themed creative activities, and on a company-wide level minute silences and afternoon teas to remember her life.
On the day following Her Majesty’s tragic passing, there was a 2- minute silence held across the Excelcare family at 11am. It was a moment for everyone to come together, united in their grief as they paid their respects. The company logo was changed in Queen Elizabeth II’s honour, with the text greyed out and a Union Jack with a crown placed on the butterfly, as a gesture of respect and a reflection of group mourning. This was added to all company email signatures and social media logos, and will remain in place until the period of National Mourning has concluded.
Throughout this period, Excelcare has provided multiple avenues for the people who live and work in their care homes, and their loved ones, to express their grief and pay their respects. They have created an online book of condolences where many have left touching, heartfelt messages about the Queen’s impact and service, as well as collating video messages for a piece of memorial content in Her Majesty’s honour. It is clear that the messages have come from the heart, with each one just as touching as the last.
One relative wrote: “Our gracious Queen of 7 decades will always be remembered for all her hard work and dedication to the nation. My Dad John G (resident) was proud to serve her majesty along Charles and Ann when he was based at RAF Marham in the 50’s. RIP”
With another writing: “A life well lived. Queen Elizabeth will go down in history as the most loved, admired and respected Queen in our history. Rest in peace your Majesty. You can truly know that you lived respected and died regretted.” The week commencing 12th September has consisted of many different activities and events held in honour of Her Majesty.
All homes and offices have held an afternoon tea in in the Queen’s honour, donning the room with bunting and serving a selection of the Queen’s favourite foods. There were, of course, marmalade sandwiches as well, to reminisce on the time the Queen shared some with Paddington Bear.
On Monday 12th September the Excelcare family also joined thousands across the country as they stood at their doorsteps, gardens and balconies for a 5-minute national applause in honour of Queen Elizabeth II, welcoming family and friends to join them via social media.
And on the day of the funeral each home has been welcoming relatives and key community members across the group to watch the funeral procession together.
This has been an emotional time for all, but Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II will be forever in our hearts.
