The family of a Chipping Norton care home surprised staff with a special thank you party and hamper.

The residents of Southerndown care home, run by Barchester Healthcare, are set to celebrate National Carers' Week, which runs from June 10 to 16.

This annual event is dedicated to acknowledging the tireless devotion and hard work put in by care providers whose invaluable contributions significantly improve the quality of lives of their residents.

Ahead of this nationwide event, one family, the Kitchings, felt compelled to express their gratitude in a tangible way towards the staff for their unwavering support over their mother's six and a half year stay at Southerndown care home in Chipping Norton.

The Kitching family's matriarch, Christine, was a resident at the care home and was remembered fondly by the staff and her fellow residents as a wonderful character who they all loved.

The family held a special party for the home's staff and provided them with a hamper.

Delighted by the family's recognition, Southerndown general manager Arlene said: "It is so wonderful to be able to receive such a huge appreciation of thanks from the family.

"The staff work so hard to ensure our residents are provided the best care and life enrichment in the home.

"For a family to go above and beyond to show their appreciation for the team is something we are so thankful for."

Each year Carers Week underscores the important awareness of the day-to-day challenges confronted by carers.

It strives to acknowledge the essential contributions these individuals make to their residents, their families, and the broader UK community.

This year's theme, 'putting carers on the map', will attempt to amplify the critical role carers fulfil.

Barchester Healthcare, one of the UK's largest care providers, is responsible for operating Southerndown Care Home.

The healthcare company is dedicated to delivering excellent service across its care homes and hospitals, offering nursing care, residential care, and respite care.

For further information, next of kin or interested parties can reach out to Arlene Acuavera, general manager at Southerndown Care Home.