Celebrating life at Barchester

Local historian and founder of Our History Explored, Mr Chris Berendt, gave a fascinating historical presentation about the Battle of Towton 1461, the most deadly battle ever on English soil and one of the most pivotal moments of the 15th century Wars of the Roses - the war which inspired the TV show 'Game of Thrones'. Mr Berendt brought in a selection of medieval weapons and armour pieces from the period, for residents to hold and look at. Activities Coordinator, Neil, even roleplayed as a medieval knight from the battle!

Upton Bay Residents, Family, and Friends enjoyed a wonderful singing session with Sally.

She delighted us with Wartime Melodies, 50s & 60s favourites, and some beloved Family Classics.

Lots of singing along.  A truly lovely time was had by all.

Kathy, who has always loved painting, has finally decided to pick it up again with the support of her daughter Debbie. 

Her passion has even inspired some of our team to join in and rediscover their creativity. 

It’s wonderful to see art bringing us all closer.

At Ritson Lodge we love hosting events that we can open up to our relatives, friends and the wider community. Life at Ritson Lodge is about being part of the local community and enjoying life long hobbies whilst also exploring new experiences.

Our Residents enjoyed a visit from some mischievous young friends for a fantastic Happy Halloween Party. There were fun treats and refreshments  as all enjoyed the intergenerational fun.

At Ritson Lodge we know that intergenerational activity is hugely beneficial to all involved as it encourages communication and social skills. Intergenerational contact also helps to develop language and reading confidence through shared activities, as well as increasing confidence and self-esteem. Lastly it helps children to develop empathy, care and kindness, helping them to understand and talk more positively about ageing and older people.

At Highfield, we know that music is something that brings everyone together, and it can be highly therapeutic for people living with dementia. Residents showed off their dance moves in style at our dementia-friendly silent disco, hosted by the fan favourite, DJ Pete. 

Animal therapy is one of the cornerstones of our life enrichment program and features regularly on our resident-led weekly activity planner.

Our Residents had a visit from two very posh pooches today Rambo and Arnie (not sure their names fit). Our Activities Team plan regular pet therapy sessions which provides emotional support, offers physical and mental health benefits, such as reducing stress, improving mood, and encouraging light exercise.

Newton House care home in Grantham recently presented Grantham Creates C.I.C with a cheque for £1,500 towards the cost of art equipment and materials for groups that focus on mental health and wellbeing.

The funds had been awarded by Barchester’s Charitable Foundation, a charity that helps older people and adults with a disability or mental health problems across England, Scotland and Wales by offering grants to help people connect or re-connect with others in their local community.

The care home welcomed Darren Whiting to a small gathering in the home’s cafe to receive the cheque and celebrate being awarded the grant.
 

At Ritson Lodge we support our residents to continue with their favourite hobbies, and encourage them to share and teach others about these too.

Our Residents love the flower arranging activities that are held monthly at Ritson Lodge. At this time of year it brightens the day and brings smiles to their faces as well as some lovely aromas as the flowers are displayed around the home

At Ritson Lodge we know that being able to continue lifelong hobbies or interests is a key part of our resident's identities, and we make every effort to encourage and support each resident to be able to do so.

Regular trips to local attractions, and other excursions are important parts of our life enrichment program and feature often on our resident-led activity planners. 

Our Residents enjoyed a trip to the local garden centre. The Residents love to get fully involved and took a trip to buy Christmas Trees and decorations to get Ashfield's Care Home ready for Christmas. Now our Activities Team can plan in home events such as Tree dressing, wreath making and present wrapping.

Regularly popping out for coffee, pub lunches, mini-bus trips, and other outings is an essential part of our weekly activity calendar.