Celebrating life at Barchester

Residents at Barchester Lotus Manor enjoyed a delightful seasonal outing this week as they visited a local garden centre to explore its Christmas displays and enjoy a spot of shopping.

The trip offered plenty of opportunities for residents to browse a wide range of seasonal treats, gifts, and decorations. Everyone enjoyed taking their time looking around the displays and soaking up the gentle festive atmosphere while chatting with staff and one another.

A highlight of the day was a relaxing visit to the garden centre’s charming tea rooms. Residents settled in with warm cake and a choice of comforting hot drinks .The perfect way to enjoy a winter outing together.

The visit was filled with good company, laughter, and plenty of seasonal cheer, a wonderful way to begin the countdown to Christmas at Lotus Manor.

We had lots of fun friday evening with brilliant entertainment from singer Tony Meacock! 

We boogied away the night, with lots of smiles and happy feet.

Today we marked the birthday of King Charles and decorated our home for the special occasion. 

Our residents were treated to a right royal afternoon tea party where they enjoyed delicious cakes and savoury delicacies.

We also spent time watching the King's birthday celebrations giving him a 3-cheers and hat wave at the appropriate times!

Taking part in intergenerational activities such as social engagements and interactions, bring together younger and older generations for a common purpose. 

Once a month our residents are treated to the joy of seeing the children from Boogie Beat Music & Movement North Wiltshire enjoying life within our home. These activities build on the strengths that different generations have to offer, as well as nurture understanding, respect, and challenge ageism.

Our residents' smiles last all day long!

We bring a bit of magic to our home to engage our residents and stimulate their senses. Our Rainbow Table allows residents to explore a variety of sensory interactive games that research shows has a positive effect on those living with dementia.

From playing the piano to painting by numbers and many other fun interactive games our residents love exploring the screen apps - it just goes to show you're never too old to try something new!

One of the cornerstones of our life enrichment program is live musical entertainment. This week our residents enjoyed the vibrant tones of D'Artagnan who had us all swining and swaying!

Resident involvement in choosing genres along with feedback after each performance means that we are able to constantly improve our activities calendar. 

Today our residents, friends and family members gathered together for a remembrance service hosted by Judith from St Nicholas' Church Hardenhuish accompanied by Susan Coates - Care Home Singer and Pianist - Wiltshire on the piano.

We prayed, sang and took time to remember and honour veterans, and all the armed forces members who have lost their lives in the line of duty.

Following the service we were treated to a beautiful High Tea courtesy of our fabulous chef Mark and the hospitality team. It was a lovely day of remembrance, enjoyed by all.

The season’s warmth arrived early at Waterside Court, brought to life by a beautiful Classicial Music performance from the talented duo 'King & Rackham'.

They treated everyone to a beautiful mix of songs — from the soothing grace of “Moon River” to the cosy warmth of “White Christmas,” and even a spirited take on “Fly Me to the Moon.” Each piece brought its own spark, creating a lovely atmosphere and plenty of happy faces.

“It was the ideal start to the festive season, lifting everyone’s spirits in the loveliest way.”

Today at Waterside Court, we were honoured to welcome Elaine Shepherd for a truly inspiring Honouring Heroes session. Elaine shared the remarkable story of her volunteer work with the Commonwealth War Graves Commission,where she tenderly cares for nearly thirty WWI and WWII headstones across seven local graveyards—quiet, dedicated acts of remembrance that preserve the stories of those who served. 

Elaine also offered a moving insight into her involvement with Standing with Giants at the British Normandy Memorial. Through her research, Elaine uncovered both a photograph and the memorial inscription of Lt. William Temple, a young paratrooper who stepped bravely into history on Day 1 of the D-Day landings. Though he tragically later succumbed to his wounds, Elaine ensures his courage and sacrifice continue to be remembered. Thanks to her, he is not forgotten.

Elaine’s visit filled our home with warmth and reflection. With families joining us through our Life Enrichment Programme, we shared a meaningful moment that honoured service, sacrifice, and the enduring importance of remembrance.

Thank you, Elaine, for bringing your passion, dedication, and heart to Waterside Court. It was a powerful and unforgettable day of connection and commemoration.