www.chrisshieldsmusic.com

 

 

A Kenley care home team member has been nominated for the prestigious Margaret Butterworth Award for Activity Provider of the Year.

 

Chris Shields, Lead Wellbeing and Lifestyle Coordinator at Rokewood Court, part of Cinnamon Care Collection, has been recognised for his dedication and creative approach to enriching the lives of residents.

 

Chris, who made a career change to care after 37 years as a librarian, as well as being an accomplished singer/songwriter and published author, joined Rokewood Court September 2023. Despite facing significant personal health challenges, including prostate cancer, surgery, recovery, and sepsis, he maintained constant contact with the team, continuing to plan and rearrange events to ensure continuous support for residents.

 

His varied programme covers the Seven Branches of Cinnamon Activities, physical, social, experimental, emotional/spiritual, creative/artistic, therapeutic, and sensory. Among his innovative projects, Chris transformed an unused garden shed into a Retro Sweet Shop, led residents in co-authoring a cookbook published on Amazon to raise funds for Macmillan Cancer Support, and created dedicated sensory zones for dementia care, including a retro laundry area, music corner, and travel table.

 

Jen Palmer, Hospitality Supervisor at Rokewood Court, said: "Chris has inspired the whole Rokewood team. His presence at Rokewood has definitely had a big effect on the home and his humour and personality are great for inspiring the team, and the residents love him too. Throughout his time off work for an operation and recovery, he maintained contact with myself to rearrange various events so residents never missed out."

 

Chris introduced The Rokewood Review, a monthly newsletter for residents and families, and instituted the Rokewood Dining Club to offer private dining experiences. He regularly sings and plays guitar for residents, brings in external performance art and workshops, such as crystal soundbaths, aerial acrobatics, and planetarium shows and collaborates with local schools and academic research projects.

 

Thomasina Allan, General Manager at Rokewood Court, said: "We are exceptionally proud of Chris and his nomination for the Margaret Butterworth Award. His energy, creativity, and resilience are an inspiration to us all. Whether he is publishing books, performing music, or simply sharing a laugh with our residents, Chris brings boundless joy and purpose to Rokewood Court every single day."

 

For further information about Cinnamon Care Collection, visit https://www.cinnamoncc.com/