Great grandmother reunited with grandchildren at Bedfordshire care home as lockdown eases

Residents at an Ampthill care home opened their doors to family as part of the further easing of government lockdown measures.

Former seamstress and playgroup leader June Boyer was the first to welcome her guests, daughter Josie and granddaughter Katie Thompson when they visited her at Richmond Manor Care Home.

Although friends and relatives have been visiting their loved ones at the Dunstable Street home using a Covid-secure suite during lockdown, in March the rules changed and allowed one nominated person to visit inside of the home every week.

And from Monday, further easing of the rules mean residents can now nominate two guests to visit - and babies and small children can be included.

Grandmother of seven, June, 84, said: “I haven’t seen them in person for weeks.”

June’s daughter Josie Thompson added: “More than a few weeks, it’s been over a year now. I think it’s a significant step really, that we’re actually in here. We’re beginning to see that

light at the end of the tunnel.”

The second resident to enjoy a special visit was 86-year-old Barbara Aggett who has four children and eight great grandchildren.

The former PA welcomed her 20-month-old great granddaughter Izzy, visiting with her daughter and son-in-law Judith and David Farbon.

Although Barbara has seen Izzy from behind a screen, this is the first time she has been able to be up close since Izzy was a newborn.

Barbara said: “It means everything to see them.”

Judith said: “It’s very emotional. This is a step forward – it’s one with great apprehension because of everything still going on.”

Son-in-law David added: “And you’ve had your second jab Barbara, which is reassuring for all of us.”

Home Manager, Fiona Smith said: “It’s been a very emotional week and the sheer delight on everyone faces has been amazing.

“It’s certainly been a very challenging year, but we can really start to see some real joy again for all our resident and families as they start to connect in this way once again.”