What is the resident funds initiative?
At Unity Plus, we understand the issues that the care sector is facing, one of which is underfunding in the industry. To aid in combating this, we donate one pound per shift worked by a Unity employee at a care home back to that care home. These funds are allocated by the homes for recreational activities and entertainment. The initiative has achieved great success since we started it back in 2022, raising over £40,000 in the first three years.
One of a kind support
Our resident funds initiative is a one-of-a-kind way of supporting the care sector. In our latest round of donations, a total of £6,352 was donated to 29 care homes throughout Yorkshire, representing the earnings from shifts worked between February and July 2025.
Hibat Ur-Rehman, our Consumer Relations Manager, who presented the cheques to the homes, explained: “If more homes did this, it would take pressure off the managers to find money to put these sorts of activities on. For the residents, it would allow them to engage in enjoyable activities. Entertainers are too expensive, and the care homes have a lot of financial priorities”.
Which care homes did we donate to?
Several of the homes receiving the donations have already allocated the funds to various areas of investment in their residents’ recreational activities. Brandon House is using its £392 to send its residents to watch a Pantomime this Christmas, while Mulgrave House is putting its £218 towards Christmas presents for its residents.
Other homes in receipt of the funds include Bedford Court, which received £228, and Adel Manor, which received £63, have allocated the money towards entertainment and a games table, respectively, while Lister House (£758) has placed the money into an amenity fund for future use.
Another home benefiting from the initiative is Ings House, which is investing in new knitting and craft equipment to support its dementia patients with their £100 donation. Mary, the activities coordinator at Ings House, expressed her gratitude for the donation: “Ings House is truly thankful for the continuing contributions from the residents’ fund. Helping us to pay for resources and equipment to support meaningful activities for all of our residents.
“We’re particularly looking forward to knitting some cosy scarves and hats now that the weather is getting colder with our new knitting machine. On behalf of the residents at Ings House, thank you for all your hard work”.
Explore our news section for more insights into how we’re making a difference to the health and social care sector.