Guild Care turns 87 and is still supporting Worthing community despite Coronavirus crisis

Local charity Guild Care celebrated its 87th birthday on Sunday, April 5, and is still supporting the community in Worthing and the surrounding area, despite the coronavirus crisis.
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Chief executive Suzanne Millard explains the role it is currently playing in the community during the most difficult of times.

“Over the last 87 years, Guild Care has been an integral part of the community, operating as it did before the advent of the NHS, and over the intervening years it has provided essential social care and support to those who need it the most.

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“The coronavirus has hit us hard, just like it has done to every other charity, small business and large corporate in Worthing and nationally. However, we are confident that we can weather this storm. We have a very strong cohort of around 400 key frontline workers who are still supporting more than 1,000 older people in Worthing.

Suzanne Millard, Guild Care chief executiveSuzanne Millard, Guild Care chief executive
Suzanne Millard, Guild Care chief executive

“Today, our three care homes are providing a lifeline for the NHS. At the very start of this crisis, we offered 15 essential discharge beds for patients who are unable to return home.

“We are continuing to run our home care service to ensure people can remain safe in their own homes. Our transport and outreach teams are supporting people who have been discharged from hospital through our Home from Hospital service, and although we have had to close all our day services, we are still providing essential support and contact by telephone to more than 260 of our many vulnerable and socially isolated customers.

“But none of this could take place without the care and dedication of our amazing frontline staff who, like the NHS, are putting their own lives at risk to ensure that all our residents and clients continue to receive the best possible care.

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“Even though many of our services have closed we are still actively recruiting within our care homes. If you are an RN, an ex-carer, or you have recently been furloughed but would like to keep working, then please do get in touch. We have plenty of work available and full training will be given to those who have never worked in a care setting before.

“There is no denying though that the impact of the coronavirus will have a massive effect on us. Our income has been significantly reduced as a result of us closing our 11 charity shops and cancelling numerous fundraising events and activities.

“We also acknowledge that without the ongoing support of the community, Guild Care would not have been able to continue for the past 87 years. So, we really do hope that you will continue to help us in the months ahead.

“One other way you can get involved, which will make a difference right now, is to join our new Guild Care Facebook group You’ve got A Friend in Me.

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“You can send our care home residents messages, making their worlds a little bigger and a little brighter during this difficult time. We know that any pictures, videos or poems would really cheer them up.

“Finally, as I reflect on the most challenging of times, I know that with your continued support Guild Care will be able to celebrate its 88th birthday next year right through to our 100th birthday in 13 years’ time, because the local community in Worthing needs Guild Care and we need you.”

If you would like to join the Guild Care team, please email [email protected] and for more information on services that are still operating, contact the customer services team on 01903 327327.