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.
