Girls' Night In
Photos: Lorna Wilkins with her Mum. Debbie Jenkins with Sonali Xavier of VocaLink
13 ladies with a learning disability were treated to a night of pampering, thanks to local businesses and supporters.
The ladies were taking part in one of our Learning & Leisure events and were treated to manicures, facials, make-overs and massages. Make up and perfume samples were donated by the Elizabeth Arden counters at Boots, St Albans and John Lewis in Watford so that a team from VocaLink, in Rickmansworth could provide the pampering.
Claire Hafner, CFO of VocaLink, said, ’We weren’t sure what was expected of us as we certainly aren’t trained in beauty techniques! But once we asked the ladies what they would like, we had a truly wonderful evening chatting away with such a lovely, warm and charming group of women whilst we tried to be beauticians. We all thoroughly enjoyed ourselves, so much so that we hope to hold a similar event at Watford Mencap after the summer so we can meet up with our new friends again.’
It was noticeable as the evening progressed how being given a bit of attention and pampering can transform a person. Some people with a learning disability struggle with confidence issues and find it difficult to make friends so it was great to see the pampered 13 grow in confidence during the evening. Debbie Jenkins was very quiet when she arrived but left with a big smile on her beautifully made up face, having thoroughly enjoyed herself.
Event organiser Lata Rees said, "The pamper event was on the wish list of many of our clients and I was very pleased to see so many people enjoying each other's company."
The event also gave the carers the oppportunity for some pamper time themselves! Lorna Wilkins's Mum, Maureen, was delighted that her daughter had enjoyed the evening. ‘Lorna looks so beautiful,’ she said, when she arrived to collect her.’ My husband and I took the opportunity to have a nice meal nearby, so we all had a good evening!'
Posted on Saturday, 30th June 2012