Manchester City Council (MCC) is committed to continually improving the quality of life for Manchester residents. Having firmly embraced the National Dignity Campaign, MCC is leading the way by introducing a Dignity in Care Award (Daisy Award) for Care Homes and Domiciliary Care. Keen to build on this success, and to promote intergenerational and life-story work, their Dignity Lead, Gillian Moncaster, has been working in partnership with representatives of the Greater Manchester West Brownies and Guides which has culminated in the Brownie Dignity badge. Councillor Glynn Evans presented the first badge awards on National Dignity Day, 25th February 2011 when ten residential care homes also received their Dignity in Care awards following rigorous assessments. As a spin off from this project, Gillian has been working with pupils from Button Lane Primary School to develop their individual Life Story Boards. Pupils visited a local Manchester Residential Care Home, The White House, and talked to residents about the project and listened to the residents' own stories.
Shirley McColgan, Manager of the home said ‘It was a privilege to meet the children and everyone associated with the event. It was evident by the enthusiasm displayed that the children were extremely proud of their Life Story Boards; it was also particularly enjoyable to see the two groups come together and share their life stories'.
Resident Mrs. Roberts said: "I had a lovely day, and the children were wonderful ambassadors for their school."
If you would like further information on how to get involved, about either the Brownie and Guide badges, or the Life Story work in schools, please contact Gillian at gillian.moncaster@manchester.gov.uk