The past year has been a year like no other. We as a team have had to navigate our way through some tough challenges. We have had to very quickly learn new work practices and ways to ensure the safety of our residents whilst providing the high level of care that our residents have come to expect at Hazel End. It has been a hard year but as is often the case in times of troubles, the pandemic has brought us closer as a team. We have been there, not just for the residents but for each other too. Our residents and their families thank us often for our support and it is lovely to know that we have made a difference to them.
Thankfully for us it is not only the residents that appreciate us. The management team at Halcyon Care Homes have praised us throughout the pandemic and supported us every step of the way. We have always felt valued and that has made this past year a little easier. 
Over the last two weeks we have been truly spoiled. The management team have organised a series of surprises to thank us for our dedication to Hazel End and these surprises were delicious.
We kickstarted the week with a visit from “The Noodle and Dumpling Bar”. We got to choose from a selection of Udon noodles, both sweet and savoury, and curries and dumplings. Both the team and the residents ate far too much, it was impossible to resist going back for seconds.
Our next visit was from “La Vita”, a vintage style street food truck. The truck was beautiful, adorned with vines and bunting. And the smell wafting from the serving hatch were amazing. We were offered waffles with syrup and ice-cream and a vast array of thick shakes in an extraordinary range of flavours. 
Reema, Kitchen Assistant commented, ‘I’ve had many different jobs, but this is the first company that have gone above and beyond to reward their staff for their hard work. These little surprises pick me ups through the day really do make me feel valued as a staff member and is very much appreciated.’
To round off the two weeks of treats, Lifestyle Manager George, Business Manager Kaz and Care Manager Gaby, put together goodie bags for the team to enjoy. These bags were jam packed with essential items like motivational notepads, pens, and bottle openers, as well as some well-deserved relaxation items, such as face masks, hand creams and even mini bottles of either pink fizz, gin, Baileys, or vodka- something for everyone to enjoy! 
Gaby Care Manager said, “In all my years or working in care, this is the first time I have been so lucky as to receive such lovely things from a company.” Astra, receptionist at Hazel End added, ‘I really do feel so lucky and grateful to be rewarded by Halcyon, not all companies are as generous to their staff.’
Managing director Daniel told us “The difference that the team have made over the past year is outstanding. It has been a trying time for everyone. Management have been humbled by the dedication shown by the whole team. These treats are our way of saying thank you, thank you for showing up and for caring for our residents so professionally and thoughtfully.”