Wow, December is here already and we are rapidly heading towards Christmas and the close of another year. This time of year means different things to different people, religious or not, but I think one common theme is that it is often a time of reflection. I like to look back over the year and, without sounding slushy or pompous, reflect on what the previous year held and focus on the positives. And with that then also look to the following year, whether that’s with excitement or trepidation…or both!
This year saw a few more changes within our team. Felix (osteopath) emigrated to Australia and Anthony took over; Antonia (reception) left for pastures new ‘up the top’ of Portishead and Denise joined the reception team; Sally (rehab instructor) semi-retired and Becky took the helm for her classes; Libby (acupuncture) headed back to be nearer to her roots and Kim, just recently, doubled our acupuncture team again. I won’t lie, it was a chaotic stressful few months managing the changes, as it always is in a small business, and we do miss our previous amazing colleagues but we have been very lucky to fill their shoes with equally lovely, efficient and professional people who have slotted into the Walnut Grove family just fine. We will be back together for our Christmas do which will be wonderful.
The biggest challenge we have faced this year has been with the Walnut Grove Wellbeing CIC and its rapid expansion in classes. Candy and I have been incredibly overwhelmed by the interest and demand for classes. It shows that this is what we need to support the NHS and our community in areas that are lacking. What has been our favourite good news story from the CIC so far? Well, obviously securing the funding from the UK Shared Prosperity Levelling Up Fund from North Somerset/Government, but beyond that it has to be the popularity of the Senior Strong classes and the joy it is bringing to so many lives. Getting strong whilst getting social – what is not to love?! It really has been a joy seeing the classes grow and develop from 1 to 3 a week (and I think we need a 4th!!), be fully booked and hear the positive feedback from people about what it means to them. Friendships have been formed and it is doing exactly what we had in mind. Every time we discuss these classes we have a smile on our faces!
The clinic has been continually flourishing and we are continually overcome and staggered by the support we get from our patients, friends and family. From the recommendations we get on social media to the reviews we receive on google or our in house clinical system ‘JANE’ and to the word of mouth suggestions, we are blown away every time how much support and positive feedback we get. We couldn’t do this without any of you and we thank YOU for your loyalty and custom. It is a true privilege to serve our local community and be a proud part of that and our local high street. We love what we do and long may it continue to 2025 and beyond.
