Jackie Woollett, House Manager at Oakshade sheltered housing facility, was recognised in the Queen’s Birthday Honours for her services to residents during lockdown.
Jackie usually manages Oakshade, one of the two sheltered housing facilities run by Abbeyfield Chichester Society, alongside a Deputy House Manager. But when the pandemic hit, the Deputy Manager was recovering from an operation.
All domestic staff who would normally help with cleaning, laundry and general support had been sent home on full pay to reduce footfall and protect the residents. Abbeyfield Chichester considered bringing in agency staff to help out on a weekly basis, but feared this could increase the risk to residents.
Jackie decided she could not leave her residents in the hands of strangers and, after leaving her beloved dog Kye with a friend, moved into Oakshade until further notice.
“An amazing feat and so well deserving of her British Empire Medal.” an Abbeyfield Chichester spokesman said.
For several months, Jackie planned and shopped online for supplies, cooked, cleared, cleaned, did laundry, liaised with residents’ families, devised activities to break the boredom and even took on some hairdressing for residents.
About Oakshade
Oakshade is well placed on the East side of the city of Chichester, close to the market. Opposite the house you'll find part of the historic city walls, which date back to the time of the Romans. A short walk past the market leads onto East Street, which is the main Shopping street and contains the major banks and building societies, Marks & Spencer, Boots etc.
Consisting of three suites, two double rooms and six large single rooms, all with en-suite facilities, the house was built in 1966. With delicious, nutritious meals at lunch time, a wonderful outdoors area, and a number of activities for residents to take part in if they wish, Oakshade is the perfect retirement living home for more independent older people.
If you would like to know more, please get in touch.
Jackie said she was ‘amazed’ by the award. Congratulations Jackie!