Protect the rights of those in care homes

Diane and Jenny are fundraising for the Rights for Residents campaign in memory of their mum Jean, who passed away in a care home during the pandemic, having had her human rights to a family life denied.

Three years ago, we never imagined we’d become passionate campaigners, but Covid turned our worlds upside down.

In response to the inhumane visiting policies placed on care home residents during the pandemic, we began campaigning for "Gloria's Law," on behalf of our loved ones, whose voices were not being heard.

The rights of those in health and care settings, were severely eroded and we must ensure that none of us are ever again completely cut off from those we love - when we're at our most vulnerable.

Being denied the opportunity to say goodbye, or hold hands at the end of life, is something no one should ever face again. We can't change the past but we can affect the future. Nobody deserves to die alone.

Fuelled by our own traumatic experience we set up Rights for Residents, reaching out to the media and connecting with thousands of other families affected by this issue, via social media.

People up and down the country joined us and have become determined and passionate Rights for Residents campaigners. Together, we continue to fight for "Gloria's Law" - a legal right to maintain contact with loved ones in health and social care settings.

Our campaign has been hugely successful - forcing changes to government policy - ensuring thousands of people living in care, have been reunited with their families.

“Gloria’s Law” would ensure that whatever's happening in the world outside, if we're in a care home or hospital, we'd have the right to be supported by the person who knows us best. Without this legal right we’re not protected.

“Being denied the opportunity to say goodbye, or have a loved one hold your hand at the end of life, is something no one should ever face again. We cannot risk history being repeated”.

Our campaign work also includes managing a vibrant Facebook community. This acts as a lifeline to many, providing advice, information, and peer support for thousands of people who feel unable to cope with the overwhelming challenges of negotiating the care home system.

Working alongside our network of media contacts, our founders and members regularly feature on national and local TV and radio and articles in national newspapers.

In our meetings with MPs, Government Ministers and the DHSC we champion the rights of those living in care homes, having direct experience of the issues we campaign on.

Speaking at care industry events and conferences has given us a platform to challenge care providers, the industry regulator (CQC) and politicians, to understand things from the perspective of residents and the loved ones that support them. Fighting for the rights of those living in care is at the centre of all we do.

Why your donation is vital

While we currently manage Rights for Residents on a purely voluntary basis, we still have essential expenses for which we need to fundraise. This includes travel expenses (train fares to attend meetings, conferences etc), newsletter platform fees, website running costs and management, postage, stationery, IT, and admin costs etc.

As the only authentic voice for those living in care settings, it’s vital our work continues but we can’t do this without your help. No matter how small, all donations help to ensure our grass roots campaign and support group has a future.We really do appreciate every donation.

Many thanks

Jenny & Diane (Co founders of Rights for Residents)