A CARE home worker from Thurnscoe has been nominated for a Proud of Barnsley award for keeping her residents smiling during the lockdown.
Kim Davies, who is the activities co-ordinator for Dearnlea Park Care Home, on Park Road, has been praised for her innovative ideas whilst residents were separated from loved ones.
The 32-year-old who has only been working at the home for a year but has created a strong bond with the residents.
Kim said: “Like every other care home across the borough, it has been a tough time to push through and keep everybody safe.
“It was important to us to keep people smiling whilst they were away from their families.
“I hired a singer to perform outside and at a social distance away from everyone. People loved it because it was a sense of normality.
“This year, all the staff are clubbing together to buy each resident a present for Christmas so that no one goes without.
“We’ve even got a Christmas pantomime planned where all members of staff are joining in. It’s going to be such a good laugh I hope.”
Kim believes the trick to her success is to love what you’re doing.
“I love the job just as much as when I first started. The residents are my top priority and I love each and every one of them.
“I wouldn’t want to work anywhere else. I come in everyday and I’m excited to think of new ways to make everyone smile.”
Kim’s kindness has landed her a nomination as Carer of the Year at this year’s Proud of Barnsley awards.
“It’s quite humbling if I’m honest. I know people say I’m doing a job but it’s more than a job for me,” she said.
“I go home thinking up other things I can do. I genuinely enjoy my time here.
“It’s lovely to get some recognition and I thank everyone for their kind words.”
