LGBTQ discussions and training at Limes Residential Home.

Jo Dewen, Deputy Manager of The Limes Residential Home, Bembridge contacted ‘Out On An Island’ after seeing a social media post about the LGBTQ Oral Histories project which is run by StoneCrabs Theatre Charity and funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund.

The Limes Residential Home is family-owned and cares for 22 residents with 7 rooms dedicated to those with dementia. Staff focus on person-centred care where each individual’s needs and lifestyles are taken into account and catered for appropriately. Owners of The Limes are forward-thinking and keen to be inclusive with their staff, residents and the residents’ families and friends who may identify as LGBTQ.

Jo said; ‘I contacted Caroline Diamond, Project Manager of Out On An Island because one of the highlights of our work is listening to our residents tell the stories of their lives and we want to assure our residents that their voices matter, ensuring that they are heard, their stories affirmed and preserved. But we can only do this by providing a safe environment so that people can speak freely and confidently, without fear of judgement which is why this project is so important. The Limes is proud to be supporting and working with the Out on an Island Oral Histories Project.’

Caroline got in contact with Anna Murray Age UK IW’s Domestic Violence Abuse and Hate Crime Support Lead. Anna is experienced at training groups around gender issues, pronouns and safeguarding and together they met with key staff at The Limes and Lady Sally Grylls. The group will undergo training which will be offered to staff, residents and the wider Bembridge community. It is also hoped that these discussions and groundbreaking training will be taken up by some of the other residential homes and care agencies across the Island.

For more details about LGBTQ+ training sessions and the Out On An Island project contact hello@OutOnAnIsland.co.uk or follow @OutOnAnIslandIW on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram or call Caroline Diamond on 07786 080 203.

Left to right in photo: Myles Dewen (The Limes Director) Anna Murray (Age UK LGBT) Caroline Diamond (Out On An Island Project Manager) Catherine Johnson RGN (Registered Manager) Jo Dewen (The Limes Deputy Manager) Julia Thornton (The Limes Activities Co-ordinator)