Residents and staff from Yorkshire recently received a special visit from The Only Way is Essex star, James ‘Arg’ Argent.
Ideal Carehomes’ Handley House and Ebor Court in York, and Anchor Hanover’s The Manor House, in Harrogate, were thrilled to meet the reality TV star who had been in the city to host the Yorkshire leg of the Great British Care Awards.
Both Ideal Carehomes and Anchor Hanover had finalists at the awards, which celebrate excellence across the care sector, paying tribute to those individuals who have demonstrated outstanding excellence within their field of work.
Having performed at some of the other regional Great British Care Awards, Arg was bowled over by the energy and passion of the finalists and was keen to get find out more, and so prior to the awards dinner called in to the two homes.
During the visits Arg enjoyed a tour of the facilities and met with residents over a cup of tea, swapping stories about their lives and shared experiences. Arg also spoke to the care home’s staff to understand more about the dynamic nature of a career in social care, and how they help residents get the most out of later life through a personalised approach to care, and a varied activity schedule.
Arg said: “It’s been lovely to meet staff and residents. It’s been a real eye opener and it just shows that life doesn’t stop if you go into a care home. The staff have given me such a warm welcome and it’s clear to see how passionate they are about the work they do. Today has been really inspirational!”
Rachel McNally, Home Manager at Ideal Carehome’s Handley House, and a Great British Care Awards finalist added: “It was fantastic to welcome James and show him what life at Handley House is like. He seemed really impressed with our home and loved chatting to the residents over a cuppa. We’d like to thank Arg for taking the extra time out of his day to visit our residents and hope he enjoyed his visit.”
A resident at the home said: “It’s been an exciting afternoon at Handley House, with our fantastic team being recognised at the Great British Care Awards and then a special visit from the host himself. James was a lovely young man and seemed to really enjoy having a good chat to everyone.
Andrea Harley, Manager at Anchor’s The Manor House care home, said: “We’re proud of our community here at The Manor House and it was a real thrill to welcome James Argent. It was a memorable visit for our staff and residents, who enjoyed sharing their stories and experiences with James.”
