‘Gobsmacked’ Bernie receives Unsung Hero award

Far more used to giving than receiving, Bernie Richardson confessed to being ‘gobsmacked’ by a surprise presentation of a national carer ‘Unsung Hero’ award.

Bernie has been working at Blackwood House for the last six years. Passionate about her job, she has raised an average £2500 annually for our residents and is always willing to go the extra mile for the people she looks after.

When the pandemic struck, she and her husband Dan threw themselves into supporting their then 10-year-old daughter Mia who decided to spend lockdown running the equivalent distance of Land’s End to John O’Groats on her family’s cross trainer – an epic endeavour that resulted in a massive £18,800 being raised.

Now the trio have embarked on another pre-Christmas campaign to reach their £20,000 target, with an online auction and 50/50 draw planned for Monday 21 December.

“They are an amazing family who are doing so much for Blackwood,” said Cornwall Care Fundraising Manager Jan Burns who nominated Bernie for The Carer award. “Caring is definitely Bernie’s vocation. She is an absolutely incredible lady whose sensitive compassion nurtures the physical and mental well-being of those she looks after.

“She is a truly inspirational carer who touches the lives of so many by going above and beyond the call of duty.”

Bernie won a £50 Marks & Spencer voucher and is still reeling from the unexpected award presentation in front of her colleagues.

“I never expected it and honestly don’t feel I do any more than anyone else,” she said. “We’re a very tight-knit team at Blackwood and we all work very hard to make sure our residents are comfortable and happy.

“I couldn’t do what I do without the love and support of my family who are just as energetic as I am when it comes to fundraising. This has been a tough year for everyone, but it’s lovely to help bring a little joy and brightness into our residents’ lives.”

Thanks to the Richardsons’ extraordinary efforts during 2020, Blackwood House has bought two interactive Magic Tables for residents, a greenhouse and a selection of garden furniture.

The Carer is a trade publication for the independent nursing and residential care home sector throughout England and Wales.

For more information about Mia’s Magic Journey fundraising, visit https://www.facebook.com/Miasmagicjourney/ and https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/miarichardson