Royal Star & Garter in Surbiton is celebrating after picking up an award at the South London Community Star & Care Awards.

Royal Star & Garter provides loving, compassionate care to veterans and their partners living with disability or dementia. The Home in Upper Brighton Road won the Charity or Fundraiser of the Year category in an online ceremony on 23 June.

The awards recognise the heroes and pillars of the community who have devoted themselves to helping others during the pandemic.

Before Covid-19, the Surbiton Home hosted up to 50 activities a week, ranging from school visits, guest speakers and entertainers to crafts, gardening and cookery. A dedicated team of over 50 volunteers helped with quizzes, crosswords, manicures, games, gardening and music activities.

Due to the pandemic and lockdown, the Home had to adapt, devising exciting events, clubs, music, arts and games to tackle a lack of social contact, creating magical moments for residents unable to see family.

Staff also came up with innovative and creative ways to support, occupy, stimulate and connect with residents. They hosted Zoom choir sessions, multi-floor bingo, and launched a book club for residents living with dementia. Outdoor concerts took place, which residents viewed from their rooms.

Home Manager Helena Maher said: “The past 18 months have been tough. Staff had had to work under very difficult, challenging circumstances. But they have continued to provide exceptional care with courage and I couldn’t be prouder of them. This award is for them.”

Royal Star & Garter also has Homes in Solihull and High Wycombe. In May, the charity won the Professional Excellence category at Alzheimer’s Society’s Dementia Hero Awards.

The Surbiton Home is welcoming new residents. For more information, please visit: www.starandgarter.org/surbiton/