Celebrating life at Barchester

We celebrate life through everything we do, from our thoughtful experiences and activities to our delicious food. We offer the latest technology as well as sensory engagement to nurture the wellbeing of our residents. With a wide variety of tailored activities and events we make sure our residents have the best physical, mental, spiritual and social stimulation, all bespoke to them. Take a look at what we’ve been up to…

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The Festival of Lights at Ashchurch View

Ashchurch View put a special event as our staff members came together to celebrate Diwali, the Festival of Lights. We decorated our lounge and our lovely Indian care team members shared their traditions and taught everyone how Diwali is celebrated in India.

Residents loved learning about the meaning behind this special festival, which symbolises light overcoming darkness and the importance of kindness, family and hope. The home was decorated beautifully, and the celebration brought a real sense of warmth and unity to everyone involved.

Several of our staff members, including our lovely General Manager Sam, tried on traditional Indian outfit. They even joined in a traditional Indian dance, which our residents loved and encouraged! 

It was a wonderful day of laughter, learning and togetherness and reminded us of importance of learning and sharing other cultures. 
 

Ross Court Shines Bright for Diwali – The Festival of Lights

Ross Court was filled with colour, joy and togetherness as residents and team members came together to celebrate Diwali, the Festival of Lights. Two of our wonderful care team members, Anjani and Vishal, shared their traditions and taught everyone how Diwali is celebrated in India.

Residents loved learning about the meaning behind this special festival, which symbolises light overcoming darkness and the importance of kindness, family and hope. The home was decorated beautifully, and the celebration brought a real sense of warmth and unity to everyone involved.

Our lovely Home Manager Agda said: “It was wonderful to see our residents and staff come together to learn, celebrate and appreciate another culture. The smiles around the room said it all — it was a beautiful day.”

At Ross Court, every celebration is an opportunity to make memories together.

Celebrating Diwali – The Festival of Light at Bryn Ivor Lodge

At Bryn Ivor Lodge, we recently transformed our Cinema Room into a vibrant celebration of Diwali, the Festival of Light. The atmosphere was filled with colour, music and joy as residents and staff came together to embrace Indian culture and traditions.

Three of our wonderful care team members from India – Divya, Binni and Rhoan – led the festivities. Divya shared traditional dance moves and a delightful video of her daughter Isabel dancing, while Rhoan’s enthusiasm was infectious, reminding everyone of the warmth of family and home.

Our lovely Activities Lead, Binni, explained the meaning of Diwali, shared a video presentation and offered everyone a taste of India with delicious traditional sweets. She also dressed our activities assistant Cynthia in a beautiful Indian outfit, which brought big smiles all around.

Residents said they learned so much about Diwali and thoroughly enjoyed the morning’s activities. It was a wonderful day of laughter, learning and togetherness at Bryn Ivor Lodge.

Pet therapy dog, Freddie pays a visit

Residents were delighted to welcome their furry friend Freddie today.  He’s such a joy to be around, bringing smiles, comfort and plenty of cuddles to everyone.

We can’t wait for Freddie’s next visit!  #TherapyDog #CareHomeActivities #FurryFriend
 

Landmark celebrates at Cookridge Court

Celebrations have been in full swing as one of our residents reaches the grand age of 102. Flo Sharp was joined by staff, relatives, friends and other residents as she received some wonderful gifts and cards in recognition of her landmark birthday. A party was held at the home and guests enjoyed a special birthday cake made by our head chef, Adrian.

Flo was born in October 1923. Flo met her husband Gordon in the war and was married for over 60 years. During the war, Flo worked in a factory making parts for aircraft used by the RAF. Flo and her husband liked to go dancing, as well as dancing. Flo and Gordan used to ride bikes in the Yorkshire dales before coming to Cookridge Court care home, where she is enjoying a new chapter of her life.
 

Autumn Walks and Pub Stops

Recently, some of our residents went for a refreshing Autumn walk through Ferndown.
The walk wouldn’t have been complete without a pit stop at The White Heather and a refreshing flavoured lemonade drink!
We were even able to say hello to some of our friends from the creative happiness club. 

Reading Books & Making Friends

We were delighted when the children from Ferndown First School came to visit us here at Kings Park recently.
The children read books to the residents, these included The Snowman and some Roald Dahl books too!
It was fantastic to see them bonding over their love of books and seeing them engage so beautifully together.
Thank you so much to the children and teachers for visiting us and we cant wait to welcome you again!

A trip to the Garden Centre

Our residents recently enjoyed an afternoon in the sun when they went on their trip out to Wimborne Garden Centre and Maidenhead Aquatics. We took our time to amble around, smell the flowers and watch the fish!
We are looking for our next trip already, keep a look out to see where we go! ...

National Mad Hatter's Day

Residents here at South Grange enjoyed a delightful Mad Hatter’s-themed afternoon tea party in honour of National Mad Hatters Day on October 6th, bringing a touch of whimsy and fun to their day. The lounge was transformed into a colourful wonderland scene. Tables were decorated with quirky props, oversized fancy teapots, playing cards and some fun masks to pose with – creating a magical atmosphere. 

Residents wore their own designed top hats that we spent the morning creating and decorating. Everyone was laughing as they tucked into an array of delicious treats, including freshly made sandwiches, a big selection of cakes, juicy fruit platters and a tempting selection of sweets. Teacups clinked and chatter filled the room as everyone shared stories and later joined in a themed quiz that everyone got involved in, discussing and guessing the answers. The afternoon was filled with smiles, music and plenty of tea. Everyone who attended had an amazing time.