A resident at a Ryde care home turned teacher for the day when the High Sheriff of the Isle of Wight paid a special visit, giving him an impromptu lesson in Makaton.
Nigel Hartley MBE visited Southern Housing’s 22 Argyll Street service in Ryde to learn more about the care and support provided to people with learning disabilities.
During his visit, the High Sheriff met residents and staff, finding out more about everyday life at the home and the work being carried out to help residents live happy, independent and fulfilling lives.
The visit also gave residents the opportunity to showcase their home and share their achievements.
Over a cup of tea, Nigel enjoyed chatting with residents, including Caroline, who took the opportunity to teach him some Makaton, a communication system that uses signs and symbols alongside speech.
The relaxed visit allowed the High Sheriff to see first-hand the welcoming environment created by staff and residents at the Argyll Street service.
Ashley Barrier-White, Registered Manager at 22 Argyll Street, has said:
“It was a real pleasure to welcome the High Sheriff to our home. It was fantastic to showcase our service, introduce him to our residents and share some of the great work our team do every day to support people to live happy, independent and fulfilling lives.
“Our residents really enjoyed the visit and were very proud to share their home and the community they’ve created here.”
Following his visit, Nigel took to Facebook to reflect on his experience, praising the warmth and kindness he had witnessed.
Nigel Hartley MBE, High Sheriff of the Isle of Wight, has said:
“Sometimes I am reminded of the warmth, kindness and love that are needed to enable us to live our live well.
“What an honour.”
