Dementia care hero John scoops national award
A RUNCORN man who dedicated himself to supporting the care home that looked after his late wife has won a national award.
John Timms, 76, won the Best Relative Contribution category at the National Dementia Care Awards, hosted by celebrity astrologer and dementia campaigner Russell Grant.
John’s wife, Marian, had dementia and was supported at St Luke’s Care Home, part of Widnesbased Community Integrated Care (CIC), in Palacefields.
Since her death, John has dedicated himself to helping St Luke’s every week.
In May, he took part in a 100-mile fundraising trek along five canals from Birmingham to Runcorn, with his son, Dave, and friend, Derek Gates.
They finished on the first anniversary of Marian’s death, raising £3,000.
The cash enabled St Luke’s to create themed gardens to give residents attractive outdoor spaces.
These included ‘Marian’s Retreat’, a sensory garden in her favourite part of the grounds.
John also visits weekly to provide companionship to residents and assistance to colleagues.
He has spoken about St Luke’s on BBC Radio 4 and ITV Granada Reports to promote the work of dementia care homes.
Last month, he took part in a Radio 4 debate, speaking live to three mil- ● lion listeners on You And Yours.
He said: “These dementia care homes are absolutely wonderful.
“The team at St Luke’s were there for Marian 24/ seven, until her dying breath. I can’t praise them enough.”
He added: “They not only cared for Marian but looked after me and all of our family.
“I’m just glad to be able to give a little something back.
“I’ve never wanted any thanks for my support of St Luke’s, so it was a huge surprise to hear that I had been put forward for this award by Community Integrated Care.
“It was an incredible honour to win this award and be part of such a big event – I know that Marian would be very proud.
“I share this success with every other family member who has been affected by dementia.”
Peter Dillon, CIC quality and transformation manager, said: “John is an inspiring man, who has given his all to supporting St Luke’s.
“He is humble, kind and dedicated, and we are fortunate to have his backing.
“His efforts this year have been staggering and he truly deserves to be recognised on stage.”
Halton was further represented at the event with the partnership between CIC and Widnes Vikings shortlisted for Best Dementia Innovation.
Community coaches and former star players have visited CIC’s dementia care homes weekly for reminiscence and activity sessions. The Chemics Café – a free monthly dementia supporters group – has also been set up, as well as several special events.
A Community Integrated Care spokesman said Widnes Vikings were the first sporting organisation ever shortlisted at the ceremony.
Mr Dillon said: “It was a pleasure to also have our Widnes Vikings partnership recognised as one of the best innovations in the dementia care sector.
“Working with the club, we’ve been able to give the people we support and members of the community some very special experiences.
“We’d like to thank John and the team at Widnes Vikings for their incredible support of our charity.” this big