Celebrating life at Barchester

Residents from Atfield House embarked on another outing to enjoy what September still has to offer and to catch the last messages of summer – rays of sunshine. The weather was mild, the rain had already dissipated, a pleasant day for an outing to a sheltered café in the grounds of Syon Park, the Hillier Garden Centre. Residents enjoyed the outdoor experience and chatting about their purchases they made here some time ago. We all admired the colourful flower displays, before enjoying tea, or coffee and cake in the small, but cosy café. The old stonework around us was marvellous to behold, as we enjoyed a social time together. 

Everyone had enjoyed this outing and the change of scenery, but we were also glad to return to the familiar surroundings within Atfield House.  

Elderwood House recently welcomed back some familiar faces for its first Respite Reunion, bringing together former respite guests and their families for a relaxed fish and chip lunch.

The afternoon provided a lovely opportunity for guests to reconnect with the team, catch up with friends they had made during their stays and share their memories of life at Elderwood House.

We are delighted to welcome Esther into our home for her short respite stay with us.

Esther is really enjoying her time here and has taken part in the activities, embraced the social side of Silverbirch but more than that has made some wonderful friends, her feedback has been so lovely for the team to hear.....

Respite stay can provide not only respite for the resident but also for their carers or families. It can also give people an opportunity to ease into what life in our home would look like day to day.
 

It was another action-packed day for our residents yesterday, with plenty of fun, laughter and some lovely time out in the community.

Our Memory Lane community started the morning with a variety of games in the lounge, including ten-pin bowling Connect 4 and some fantastic interactive games on our Memory Tablet. There was plenty of friendly competition along the way.

In the afternoon, we hopped on the minibus and headed to nearby Hemingford to visit the beautiful St Margaret’s Church. The residents were fascinated by the stunning stained-glass windows and each took a turn to light a candle, creating a peaceful and very special moment.

And, of course, no afternoon out would be complete without a little refreshment! We finished our trip with a well-earned drink at the Axe and Compass before heading back home to Bayleaf.

What a wonderful day of games, community, reflection and good company.

Our residents always enjoy their special live entertainment sessions with Carly Ann!

Her room visits and small-group showcases have become a much-loved part of life here, bringing music, smiles and plenty of wonderful memories.

What makes these sessions extra special is the personal touch. Residents can share their favourite songs with Carly Ann in advance or make a request during her 15-minute showcase.

Sometimes, these sessions lead to wonderful sing-alongs, with families joining in and sharing the joy of music together. It’s lovely to see residents, relatives and Carly Ann singing along, reminiscing about special memories and enjoying music that means something to them.

A little music can create some very meaningful moments.