A group of JT workers have donated their ‘annual charity day’ to improving the environment at Sunnybrook – a care home for residents with Complex Learning Disabilities.
Recently, 11 JT staff carried out work at Sunnybrook, based at Duchess of Kent, to the benefit of residents and staff. Volunteers gave their time to paint both main corridors in a neutral, autism-friendly colour, making the space feel brighter and more calming. They found the activity itself very rewarding, expressing that it felt worthwhile giving something back to the community.
Wayne O’Regan, JT Planning Officer, said: “For a small portion of your time, you can make a massive impact for those that appreciate the effort.”
JT volunteer Lead Jo Jalowiec agreed, saying: “I would say I loved it; it was the best charity work I have completed for a long time, and I felt like we really made a difference.”
Residents, families, and staff are delighted with the work. Denise O’Sullivan, Deputy Manager Sunnybrook, said: “The works have made a positive impact to staff morale and really brightened up the space. The JT Volunteer teams are very accommodating and supported us to make sure there was a continuation of normal routines whilst work was ongoing. It was a really great experience overall.”
The space is now bright and more spacious and to further enhance the environment HSC Arts + Health commissioned Artist James Colmer to create personalised front door artwork for the residents based on their favourite colours and interests. The designs were inspired by the carved front doors created by cabinet makers throughout the Victorian period that can be seen around the island and that are unique to Guernsey. These installations should be completed by the end of December.
