At Farnworth Care Home, residents are more than the people who are cared for — they become part of the family. This was never clearer than in the way colleagues Elaine, Health Care Assistant, and Collette, Nurse, came together to honour the life of Roland, a much-loved resident who lived at the home for over seven years.

Elaine had worked at Farnworth for six years and was Roland’s key worker. During that time, strong bonds naturally formed.

“We had a really good relationship with Roland,” Elaine reflected. “He loved football, and I do too, so there was always something to talk about. I’d help him with his lottery, celebrate his birthdays, and make sure he always felt thought of. Roland was kind — He truly felt like one of our own.”

Roland initially joined Farnworth in nursing care and later required hospital treatment. Although hospital stays made him anxious, his condition sadly worsened, and he did not return home.

When staff were informed that Roland’s funeral would be a simple cremation due to him having no close family, it did not feel right to Elaine and Collette.

“It didn’t reflect who Roland was or the life he lived with us,” Elaine explained. “He deserved more — dignity, personality, and love.”

Together, Elaine and Collette took responsibility for ensuring Roland received the farewell he deserved. Collette carefully gathered his belongings, and with the support of the funeral director and Bolton Council — who confirmed funding was available — arrangements were made to personalise his service.

Roland’s farewell reflected everything he loved. A horse-racing theme was chosen, and a tiger soft toy was placed in his coffin, as tigers were close to his heart. Staff wrote personal messages and memories, each one reflecting the strong relationships built over the years.

One of the home’s Activity Coordinators, Tina, created a heart-shaped note where colleagues could write farewell messages. These were placed in the coffin so Roland was surrounded by words of love.

Elaine also arranged a memorial box for Roland — a small casket containing his ashes — so he could be brought back home to Farnworth.

“Bringing him back here meant everything,” Elaine said. “This was his home. This was his family.”

Throughout this time, the entire Farnworth team stood together, offering emotional support and kindness. Staff also held a collection in Roland’s name, with plans underway for a lasting tribute, such as a memorial bench, to ensure his memory continues to be part of the home.

For Elaine and Collette, this was never about going beyond their roles — it was about doing what felt right.

“No one in our care should ever be forgotten or alone,” Elaine added. “We walk alongside our residents through their lives, and it’s only right that we honour them at the end. If I had to do this again, I would.”

Their compassion reflects the values at Farnworth Care Home — where care means dignity, connection, and family, always.