Residents, team members and volunteers gathered at Paternoster House to celebrate volunteer Daphne Smith’s 80th birthday.  Known affectionately as ‘Grandma’ to all at Paternoster, Daphne has volunteered at the Cirencester care home for 19 years. 

Daphne was born and raised in nearby Kemble.  She turned her hand to many jobs, including shop keeping at the former Baileys department store, preparing food at the Navy Army and Air Force Institute (NAAFI) for armed forces stationed around the country, farming potatoes, roguing crops, and housekeeping.  She, her husband Art, and son Roy eventually moved to Cirencester, where she cared for her mother-in-law for many years.  Daphne came to know Paternoster well, when they moved her mother-in-law into the home.  She explains: “Paternoster had a more homely feeling than other care homes, and we thought straight away that my mother-in-law would be happy here.  The good atmosphere here makes all the difference.”

Sian Dewhurst, OSJCT Volunteer Manager in Gloucestershire, said: “Daphne knows all of the residents by name, what their likes and dislikes are, and where their rooms are.  She volunteers four  days a week, managing the front garden and helping with anything else that’s needed.  When the weather isn’t favourable, you’ll find her inside the home befriending residents, making sandwiches, serving drinks, helping with activities, and more!”

Everyone pitched in to make Daphne’s birthday a memorable occasion: Activities Co-ordinator Sharon acted as party organiser, volunteer Carol baked a beautiful birthday cake, CEO Dan sent a special video message with his good wishes for the occasion, cook Richard prepared a BBQ feast, and professional singer Tony entertained guests with some of Daphne and her late husband’s favourite songs by Queen and Frank Sinatra.

Sian added: “I could not fail to notice how many of the team were giving Daphne hugs, sharing their birthday wishes and telling her how much they loved her!  She is quite clearly adored by all.  It was a truly fabulous celebration and no doubt will be talked about for months and years to come.” 

Daphne was nominated to attend the Queen’s Garden Party at Buckingham Palace in 2020, in recognition of her dedication to volunteering at the care home.  She also received a St John Service Medal at the Trust's recent Volunteer Appreciation Event.

Speaking of her long-term dedication to the home, Daphne humbly said: “I honestly believe it’s worthwhile and I enjoying coming in. We are like a family, and all the staff call me Grandma.”