A colourful, hand-crafted quilted banner now greets visitors at the Thornhill Manor office – a heartfelt contribution from June Robinson, a talented resident known for her quilting talent.
This beautiful gift displays a series of hearts that represent the core values of Rand Aid Association’s HEARTS campaign and reflects the organisation’s alignment with international and national standards on the rights and responsibilities of older persons.
Shaun Victor, Thornhill Manor’s manager, says the HEARTS campaign promotes honesty, empathy, accountability, respect, trust and sensitivity. “It encourages teamwork and support while emphasising the importance of creating a safe and inclusive environment. We aim to make these principles part of everyday life at Thornhill, and June’s banner gives them a visible form.”
Unveiled as part of The Rand Aid Way, officially launched in February, the HEARTS campaign reinforces a shared commitment to these core values across all Rand Aid villages and care centres.
Building on this initiative, the campaign reflects the foundational principles outlined in the United Nations Principles for Older Persons, including that:
– Older persons should be able to live in environments that are safe and adaptable to personal preferences and changing capacities,
– Older persons should be able to pursue opportunities for the full development of their potential, and
– Older persons should be treated fairly regardless of age, gender, racial or ethnic background, disability or other status, and be valued independently of their economic contribution.
It is also aligned with the Declaration on the Rights of Older Persons (independence, participation, care, self-fulfilment and dignity) and with South Africa’s Older Persons Act 13 of 2006 and its supporting regulations, which recognise that older persons are vital members of society, with both rights and responsibilities.
“June’s contribution captures the spirit of our community,” says Jackie Scott, deputy manager at Thornhill Manor. “Her banner makes our shared values visible and vibrant, reminding us daily of the compassionate environment we are building together. The HEARTS pledge lays out the responsibility each resident can take to help create a supportive and enriching environment at Rand Aid.”
A framework of rights and responsibilities
The HEARTS values are not only a vision for interpersonal relationships, but they also echo statutory regulations under South Africa’s Older Persons Act, specifically those governing support services. These regulations place equal importance on rights and responsibilities – a balance that ensures older persons live in dignity and safety while actively contributing to their well-being and that of the wider community.
Key principles include the right to be treated with dignity and respect, protection from abuse and exploitation, and the right to participate in the planning and delivery of services. Just as importantly, older persons and their families are expected to remain as self-reliant as possible, engage positively in community life and avoid actions that may endanger others.
“The Rand Aid Way is about embracing a culture of mutual respect and empowerment,” says Amanda Diener, Rand Aid’s GM: commercial and compliance. “We encourage residents and their families to take an active role in shaping their community, echoing the legislation and the global call to uphold older persons’ rights.”
Living by the values of community care
Launch events held in February at Thornhill Manor, Elphin Lodge, Thembalami Care Centre and SANCA Wedge Gardens treatment centre saw residents and staff come together in celebration of the campaign. The events were marked by the unveiling of coloured hearts across villages, inspiring curiosity and discussion. Participants were invited to sign the HEARTS Pledge, a public commitment to embodying the campaign’s values in their daily interactions.
“By committing to these principles, we create an environment where older persons can flourish,” says Ayanda Matthews, GM: care and human resources. “The Rand Aid Way not only ensures that elders are supported and respected, but it also encourages staff and families to uphold these standards in their roles.”
“Residents, staff and families all have a part to play,” adds Shaun. “Whether it’s through creative expression like June’s quilt or everyday acts of kindness, we are all responsible for making Thornhill Manor – and Rand Aid – a place where people feel safe, seen and supported.”
June Robinson with the beautiful banner she made to reflect Rand Aid’s HEARTS campaign.
