Oakland Care staff and residents participated in a range of green initiatives across its ten care homes as part of the organisation’s fourth Greener Month. 

Each Oakland Care home held its own Eco Fair, inviting local sustainable businesses to exhibit stalls focused on re-using materials. The care provider also hosted a series of seminars for local businesses to learn more about its sustainability strategy and how to make positive changes.

Residents enjoyed visits from guest expert speakers including Essex and Kent Wildlife Trust and the Bat Conservation Trust who explained the ways in which bats can best be supported in our ecosystem.

Oakland’s Greener Month has evolved from an initial ‘Green Week’ to become a four-week marathon of events and activities. At Maplewood Court in Maidstone staff and residents joined forces with the children from a local primary school to carry out a big litter pick in the town. At Beechwood Grove residents and staff joined with community organisation Plastic Free Eastbourne to clean up the seafront.  

Oakland Care is the first carbon neutral care group and has achieved multiple environmental awards , including Gold at the Green World Environment Awards earlier this year.

Joanne Balmer, Oakland Care chief operating officer, said: “Alongside the core beach cleans and tree planting sessions which have been a staple to our endeavours through Green Week and Month over the years, we have been proud to lead several seminars for our local communities focused on sharing our knowledge and learnings as the UK’s ‘greener choice’ of care home provider. “

She added: “We feel a strong sense of responsibility to protect the environment and are committed to pushing towards a sustainable future for all. Making a positive impact through our activities and inspiring others on their sustainable journey is key to our efforts.”