Lowestoft: Care home manager takes on abseil challenge

Sue Graham, home manager of Harleston House - a residential and dementia care home in Lowestoft - has taken on the UK's highest freefall abseil, the ArcelorMittal Orbit in London.

Mrs Graham took on the 262ft challenge alongside Julie Davey, whose mother, Elizabeth, is a resident at Harleston House - as they raised more than £2,000 for the home.

Julie Davey (L) and Sue Graham (R) after completing the abseil for Harleston House. Picture: Harleston House (Image: Harleston House)

Last month Harleston House was awarded a top 20 spot by independent care platform Carehome.co.uk - after receiving glowing reviews from residents, friends and relatives.

And now funds have been raised for the home, which is operated by Greensleeves Care, a not-for-profit organisation.

Mrs Graham is no stranger to taking on challenges in the name of charity - and the next fundraiser is already being planned.

She said: "It was brilliant, amazing and I am so glad to have done it.

"I have now completed a skydive and abseil for the home and in 2025 I will do a wing walk."

Her co-abseiler said: "I found it scary going over the edge, but the view was amazing and my drive was knowing I was raising money for the home, otherwise I would have opted out and said can’t do it.

"I am glad I have done it, but never again"

The duo have exceeded their £1,000 target, with the current figure surpassing £2,000.

The funds raised so far will go towards a new projector for the home’s communal space, alongside sensory equipment intended for residents living with dementia, to complement the home’s already fulfilling and varied activities programme.

Harleston House holds an 'Outstanding' rating from the CQC, and the home is currently welcoming new residents and team members.

For more information about living or working at Harleston House, visit its website.