Celebrating life at Barchester

The festive fun continued as our residents and colleagues came together to enjoy a wonderful range of Christmas-themed activities. The home was filled with warmth and laughter as everyone joined in the celebrations, creating special moments and lasting memories.

There were smiles all around as residents took great delight in decorating the Christmas tree, carefully placing ornaments and adding their own personal touches. Others embraced their creative side by taking part in seasonal arts and crafts, producing beautiful pieces of festive artistry.

Elvis is in the building!

With hips swinging, classic hits filling the room, and plenty of swooning from the crowd, our residents and visitors were transported straight back to the golden age of rock ‘n’ roll. Laughter, singing, and a whole lot of dancing made it a truly memorable afternoon for everyone.

We recently had a craft session where some of our lovely residents at our home got into the festive spirit by creating their own beautiful DIY Christmas wreaths. Guided by our activities team, residents chose from an array of seasonal materials to design wreaths that reflect their personal style and holiday memories.

The wreath-making session was more than just a craft activity; it encouraged creativity, conversation, and a wonderful sense of togetherness. Many residents shared stories of past Christmas traditions as they arranged their decorations, filling the room with warmth and laughter.

These handmade wreaths now brighten our communal spaces and residents’ doors, adding a personal touch to our Christmas décor. The activity not only brought festive cheer but also offered therapeutic benefits, supporting dexterity, focus, and emotional well-being.

We’re proud to see our residents’ talents shine through such meaningful, joyful creations that help make the season truly special.

Station Court have run a toy drive in collaboration with local charity Scarlett’s Helping Hands to ensure vulnerable and underprivileged children aged 0–18 across the North East receive presents this Christmas morning.

Toys and gifts came flooding into the home from staff members, visitors and the local community to donate to the care homes toy appeal which they have organised since 2022.

Staff were delighted to deliver all the gifts to community-driven charity Scarlets Helping Hands. The first festive toy appeal was launched in 2020 by Ashleigh Duke and her daughter, Scarlett. Inspired to help families after COVID-lockdown and to support families in need.

Residents and guests enjoyed an afternoon of entertainment with a live music performance that took place at the home.  Hilderthorpe Primary School pupils performed a selection of Christmas songs, including their beautiful version of “Feliz Navidad”

Residents joined in with the singing, and clapped along as the children performed a lovely variety of Christmas songs. The Activity Team at the home provided a spread of sweets and treats for the children to enjoy after the show.

There’s no better way to spend a long, chilly winter’s day than relaxing in our beautiful cinema room, warmed by the gentle glow of a simulated fire. It has quickly become a favourite spot for residents to unwind, chat, and enjoy a variety of calming activities. Our Men’s Group has been having great fun playing battleships and sharing stories, bringing plenty of smiles and laughter to the room.

Across the home residents have also been enjoying jigsaw puzzles, magic painting, and quiet moments over a comforting cuppa. These simple pleasures create a welcoming atmosphere where everyone can join in at their own pace. The sensory trolley has added an extra touch of joy, offering soothing scents, textures, and experiences that brighten even the greyest of days.

The Cosy Creative Corner continues to be a warm and uplifting space, perfect for spending time together this winter.