Celebrating life at Barchester

We recently enjoyed a truly unforgettable afternoon at Bamfield Lodge Care Home as we celebrated the birthday of The King in spectacular style. Our residents were thrilled to welcome the incredible Andy T, whose Elvis tribute performance brought music, laughter, and energy to every corner of our home.

From the moment Andy stepped into the room, the atmosphere was electric. Dressed to impress and full of charisma, he delivered a fantastic selection of Elvis Presley’s greatest hits, inviting everyone to sing, clap, and dance along. The room was buzzing with excitement as familiar tunes sparked memories, smiles, and spontaneous dance moves from residents and staff alike.

It was a joyful, heart-warming celebration that truly embodied the spirit of togetherness and fun. Moments like these are so important in creating meaningful experiences and lasting memories for our residents.

Throughout December, community connections have been at the very heart of our life enrichment programme, filling our home with warmth, music, laughter and togetherness. It has been a truly special time of welcoming the community in and taking our residents out to be part of the surrounding community — and the celebrations didn’t stop when December ended.

We have been incredibly lucky to share magical moments with so many wonderful groups and individuals, including the Madrigals Choir, Carmarthen Male Voice Choir, Awl Bronsancler LMA Church, Babell Chapel, Tonic Choir, St Mary’s Church and the Minstrels, Dr MZ Youth Group, Beavers, Mr and Mrs Claus, local counsellors, Carmarthen Round Table, the Rotary Club, Inner Wheel, the Salvation Army Band, Rev’d Beti Wyn James, and the Carmarthen Symphonic Wind Band. Alongside them all, our families and friends helped make every moment even more meaningful.

A very special thank you goes to our wonderful entertainers — Robbie Lee, Kelly Wyatt and Carmarthen Ukuleles — who brought joy, energy and festive spirit throughout the season. Carmarthen Ukuleles also helped us welcome the New Year in style, entertaining us through our New Year celebrations and ensuring the year began with music, smiles and togetherness.

It has been an absolutely magical festive season, and none of it would have been possible without the kindness, generosity and time given by our community — and the dedication and care of our wonderful team of staff. Thank you all for helping to make this season truly merry and bright, right through to the New Year.             

Christmas morning was our traditional opening of presents together in the conservatory, full of smiles and happiness with families popping in and out through the festivities. 

Christmas is made so special by all the team at Field House, home from home.       

Christmas week brought lots of fun events at Field House, starting with the staff children’s Nativity Play! 

With the residents and visitors enjoying the Nativity and songs with the children and also a doggy donkey supporting Mary in Bethlehem, the children sang Christmas carols with the residents and later, everyone enjoyed a Christmas gingerbread house.        

Pola enjoyed a wonderful day out recently, designed around her individual interests and preferences. Known for her love of shopping, coffee breaks, and spending time outdoors, Pola made the most of her visit to the local Wimbledon Quarter.

The day included browsing shops, enjoying a relaxing coffee in a local café, and taking a gentle walk around the area. With fresh air, a friendly atmosphere, and plenty of time to enjoy the moment, the outing offered both relaxation and enjoyment.

The trip highlights the importance of personalised support, ensuring residents can take part in activities they truly enjoy. For Pola, it was a day filled with simple pleasures, smiles, and quality time spent in the heart of the community.    

White Lodge residents were treated to a fantastic Elvis Presley tribute show by Nick from Mini Concert, who brought the magic of the King to life in a wonderful show. Setting the mood with “Dream a Little Dream,” Nick had everyone hooked from the very first note.
He went on to perform classic hits like “Suspicious Minds,” “Return to Sender,” “Hound Dog,” “Love Me Tender,” and “Moon River,” getting everyone singing and dancing along. 
The show ended on a high with the timeless favourite “Can’t Help Falling in Love,” with the whole room joining in. A truly memorable tribute to a legendary artist...thank you, Nick, for an unforgettable afternoon! 

Happy New Year from the residents and team of Queens Court.

As we welcome 2026, we extend our warmest wishes to everyone for a year filled with love, good health, happiness, and new opportunities. 

May the year ahead bring peace, positivity, and many good moments shared together.       

We were delighted to welcome Debutots into our care home, where the sounds of children's laughter instantly filled the home with joy.  Their visit brought a wonderful energy that was felt by residents and team members.

These sessions are a regular activity, creating meaningful connections with our residents and the children who visit, boosting wellbeing, gentle cognitive stimulation and sharing beautiful moments where generations come together. 

Staff and residents from Barchester’s Sherwood court care home, in Preston, Fulwood, had a fantastic time organising our annual Christmas Fayre in order to raise money for their residents. They all enjoyed taking part in playing games: tombola, working stalls and tucking into homemade cakes, hot chocolate and much more.

Residents and staff had a brilliant time. This event was an amazing delight and allowed family members and residents to feel closer to loved ones, enjoying laughs and quality time together.

General Manager, Liz, said: “We absolutely love being able to support and encourage our residents to partake in these events. It allows us all to take time for the residents and allows us to work hand to-hand with the families which make our home. We’ve all thoroughly enjoyed ourselves and allowed our community to be a part of such an incredible event.”