At Willowbrook Homecare, our mission to provide exceptional, person-centred care services extends beyond the walls of individual homes and into the very heart of our community. One of the most enriching aspects of our work is the bonds we form with local companies and like-minded people who share our commitment, compassion, and values.
This month we are thrilled to highlight our valued connection with Union Road Community Church and the remarkable initiative led by Arnot Bridges and his church colleagues.
Embracing Community with the Street Crew
Arnot, a semi-retired minister at Union Road Community Church in Oswaldtwistle, has been a beacon of community spirit and support. In his own words, Arnot shares the inspiring journey of how the Union Road Church aimed to reconnect with its Oswaldtwistle community through a heartfelt initiative:
“Hi, my name is Arnot Bridges. Until my recent semi-retirement, I was the minister at the Community Church on Union Road here in Oswaldtwistle. During the past several years, the Church became concerned that we’d lost touch with our local community. This led to an initiative we call ‘Street Crew,’ the idea being a small team would work out from the Church and onto Union Road to reconnect ourselves in service to the local community.
As part of the Street Crew’s outgoing work, I’ve been ‘adopted’ as a semi-official chaplain by and to the Willowbrook Team, who also serve our community, providing home-care services. The standing joke is I’m their priest whether they want me or not, regardless of whether Willowbrook people attend Community Church or not.
Frankly, it’s a privilege and has been a very two-way connection as the Willowbrook staff, in numerous ways, have generously contributed to the work of our Food Bank. For me, this togetherness, whatever anyone else thinks of my ‘religious’ aspect, is an extension of what I believe Church ought to represent: we are, despite faults and failings, meant to be the servants of those who serve the community and the town itself. I love being an adopted Willowbrooker: a small part of a very dedicated and caring team.”
A Two-Way Connection of Care and Support
Arnot’s words beautifully capture the essence of our relationship with Union Road Community Church. This collaboration exemplifies the true spirit of community where care and support flow both ways, enriching the lives of everyone involved.
Lynn Wash, Deputy Manager at Willowbrook Homecare (Hyndburn), added, “The Homecare team have not only benefited from Arnot’s guidance and care, but they have also had the privilege of contributing to the Union Road Church’s vital Food Bank initiative, ensuring that the local community is supported.”
The bond between Willowbrook and the Union Road Community Church is a testament to what can be achieved when local companies unite with a shared purpose. Together, we are more than just service providers; we are a community dedicated to uplifting and caring for one another.
Arnot’s role as our ‘semi-official chaplain’ is a cherished part of this partnership, bringing warmth, understanding, and a sense of togetherness to our team.”
Join Us in Making a Difference
We invite you to join us in our mission to foster strong community bonds and support those in need. Whether through volunteering, donating to the Food Bank, or simply spreading the word, your involvement can help us continue to build a caring and connected community.
For more information about our partnership with Union Road Community Church or to get involved, please contact us at our Union Road, Oswaldtwistle Office.
