Spellman Care, a leading group of luxury care homes across North & West Yorkshire, is thrilled to announce the overwhelming success of its “Love Grace” handbag collection. The initiative, which concluded on 14th June, saw an incredible 38 bags filled with essential toiletries and comfort items delivered to a women’s refuge in Peterlee, providing much-needed support and dignity to women who have experienced domestic violence.
The campaign, launched across Spellman Care’s four homes – Craven Nursing Home (Skipton), Ghyll Royd Care Home (Guiseley), Springbank Care Home (Silsden), and Steeton Court Nursing Home (Steeton) – encouraged local communities to donate new or gently used handbags brimming with thoughtful contributions.
“We are absolutely delighted by the generosity and compassion shown by our residents, staff, and the wider community,” said Philippa Young, Operations Manager at Spellman Care. “The response to the Love Grace Handbag Appeal has been truly phenomenal, far exceeding our initial hopes. Knowing that we’ve been able to contribute to making a tangible difference in the lives of women at such a critical time is incredibly rewarding and truly embodies our values of Kindness, Dignity, and Compassion.”
The “Love Grace” initiative, launched by Grace Millane’s family in her memory, aims to offer practical items and a sense of personal care to women often forced to leave their homes with little more than the clothes on their back. Each donated handbag, thoughtfully filled with essentials and small luxuries, represents a gesture of kindness and support.
Hannah, Grace Millane’s Cousin and a representative from the Love Grace appeal, expressed her gratitude: “We want to extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who donated and shared news of the Love Grace handbag appeal at Spellman Care. We truly believe each bag brings a smile to someone’s face, and you’ve undoubtedly brightened the days of so many women when they needed it most. Thank you to Spellman Care not only for collecting the bags but also for raising crucial awareness about male violence against women and girls, and why these bags are so vital.”
Hannah also highlighted the community spirit: “We’re so pleased you arranged a seamless drop-off with Cathy, who then got them to a local women’s shelter; we really champion the idea of communities supporting one another. It never ceases to amaze us how much kindness there is in the world.”
Spellman Care extends a special thank you to Cathy Parry, a dedicated volunteer for Love Grace, for her invaluable support in coordinating the delivery of the handbags. The inspiring sight of donations, including those pictured filling the lawn at Steeton Court Nursing Home, served as a testament to the community’s immense generosity.
The Love Grace Campaign continues on, and other local drop-off points can be found on their website: https://www.lovegrace.co.uk/.
