London housing hero goes the extra mile during pandemic

A retirement housing worker has received praise from her colleagues and residents for her dedication and selflessness the coronavirus pandemic.

At a time when an Independent Age survey suggests that more than half (52%) of over 65s say they have had problems obtaining essential items such as food, Maxine Wells has been praised for going the extra mile for the residents of several Anchor Hanover retirement properties across London, including Newnton Close apartments off Seven Sisters Road.

Following the beginning of social distancing procedures, Maxine wasted no time in making sure the residents in her care would be looked after. She has organised a shopping and prescription pick up rota for those unable to go out for themselves at this time. She is also in regular contact with her residents to see how they are getting on and just provide a friendly voice for them to talk to in case they begin to feel isolated.

On top of that she’s also arranged a weekly assortment of puzzles and other activities for her residents to keep their morale high and give them something to do. Outside of directly ensuring the wellbeing of the residents of Newnton Close, she is also in regular contact with voluntary organisations who can provide support to residents should they need it and is sharing important information with her colleagues at Newnton Close and other Anchor Hanover properties in the area.

Lyn Hornsby, 71, a resident of Newnton Close, said:

It’s not been easy during to get on with things at the moment, but Maxine has been really getting me what I need while I can’t go outside.

She’s also been a really lovely person to talk to and just be there to have a chat with as well as getting us some fun puzzles and activities to do to pass the time! Maxine has been a shining light during a dark time.

Rowena Fletcher, Area Manager at Anchor Hanover, said:

It is vital we do everything we can to support our residents, particularly during these unprecedented times. The Independent Age data shows the difficulties older people are facing, and I am proud that so many of my colleagues working at our locations are going above and beyond to help residents.

Maxine’s dedication to her residents during these difficult times has been nothing short of remarkable. She has shown extraordinary kindness and consideration for the residents at Newnton close as well as brilliant forethought in organising not just essential supplies but also methods of keeping those in isolation entertained.