A Hartford woman, who until recently was unable to move about her own home independently, is “chuffed to bits” to have received a £750 grant from Barchester’s Charitable Foundation for a specialised chair necessary for improving her health.

Gillian Powell, 78, is in the process of regaining her mobility and independence after a long period of receiving care in bed and struggling with the everyday activities which most people take for granted.

The grant has paid for a reclining chair, which will help improve Gillian’s health further by promoting tissue viability and will help with her ability to move around her home independently.

Gillian was nominated to receive the grant by unit manager at Iddenshall Hall Care Home in Tarporley , Laura Cooke.

Laura had got to know Gillian when she stayed at Iddenshall Hall for respite care and was part of the team who helped Gillian learn to stand up and moving independently once again. She knew how important this chair could be for Gillian and got in touch with Barchester’s Charitable Foundation to nominate her for a grant.

Gillian said: “I’m chuffed to bits with the chair. I think it’s going to make a big difference to my health and help continue the amazing progress I have been making.”

Laura Cooke said: “Knowing that this grant has been able to help Gill to continue with the great progression in her mobility is fantastic. When Gill was at Iddenshall Hall she was cared for in bed and wanted to be able to help herself a lot more. With encouragement and support from the staff Gill was able to move around her bedroom and sit in her chair during the day. Gill felt that she wanted to continue this when she went home and the grant from Barchester’s Chratiable Foundation has helped her to achieve this. Well done Gill!”

Barchester’s Charitable Foundation helps older people and other adults living with a disability in the UK by offering grants to improve independence, mobility and quality of life. Grants can be applied for via their website: www.bhcfoundation.org.uk