Celebrating life at Barchester

Our home warmly welcomed Amanda from Jatec Healthcare for a special community ear wax removal clinic, offering free ear checks to residents and local community members.

The clinic provided an excellent opportunity for people to receive professional ear health advice and checks in a relaxed and friendly environment. Amanda’s expertise was greatly appreciated by everyone who attended, helping to promote better hearing health in the community.

Jewellery making for arts and crafts has become a favourite in our home. It’s therapeutic, and it’s nice to make gifts for family members. The activity gives residents independence, fun and enjoyment.  

What’s your favourite piece of jewellery?    

Another lovely game of curling to start the day. Being active and competitive keeps the body and brain stimulated, such a fun sport to play.

The red team won with 84 points, but the blues weren't far behind with 80 points. We were lucky to have Chef Sonia to help out and have a quick go! Lovely having the team join in.      

Yesterday was a lovely day in our care home, starting with 1-1 pamper sessions in the morning, giving residents the chance to enjoy focused time and personalised activities in a calm setting.

In the afternoon, we headed out together on the mini bus for a trip to a local farm shop, where everyone enjoyed a relaxing tea outing and a change of scenery.

It was great to see residents engaged, socialising, and making the most of both meaningful one-to-one time and a shared community outing. Days like these really make a difference.    

There was music in the air at Reigate Beaumont as Jon McDevitt visited to entertain our residents with his wonderful guitar skills and vocals. He treated everyone to a selection of much-loved classics, from Frank Sinatra to Elvis Presley. 

Brenda, one of our residents, commented, “He is superb, I always enjoy coming to watch Jon.”

The lounge was filled with singing, laughter, and joy, making it a truly uplifting morning for everyone who attended.  

We had a lovely Show and Tell session with our residents who shared all their wartime memorabilia.
There were lots of smiles, memories shared, and wonderful conversations as everyone enjoyed talking about familiar items and the stories behind them. Activities like this are a great way to encourage connection, spark memories, and simply enjoy time together.

Thank you to all our residents for sharing—you made the session very special.

On our Memory Lane we have themed corridors decorated with pictures and various items to create memories and to encourage reminiscing.

Down the garden-themed corridor, our resident really enjoyed seeing and touching all the flowers and plants. She said it was so lovely that you can bring the outside in doors and enjoy the plants without getting cold and wet! This can significantly enhance the well-being of residents who have limited access to the outdoors. It creates a calming, familiar environment that reduces anxiety, boosts cognitive function, and fosters a sense of purpose.   

I am Wendy and I have been working in the care sector for 11 years, caring in the community for 7, then in care homes. I joined Sycamore Grove in 2024 and have enjoyed getting to know the residents and finding out their likes and dislikes and helping them try out new activities. 

I love to give people purpose and encourage them to do as much as they can.   

We honoured a very special resident's birthday, celebrating 93 beautiful years of a life that has touched so many.

Ninety-three years filled with stories, lessons, sacrifices, and unconditional love.

This day reminds us that birthdays are not always about parties or entertainment, but about presence, connection, and feeling truly seen.

What makes this celebration special is its simplicity family gathered close, shared smiles, gentle kisses, and the sound of genuine laughter.

At 93, every moment together becomes a gift, every smile holds wisdom, and every laugh carries meaning.

Surrounded by love, family, and heartfelt togetherness, we celebrate not just another year, but a legacy of love that continues to inspire. Sometimes the most beautiful celebrations are the quiet ones, filled with warmth, gratitude, and care.

Happy 93rd Birthday. You are deeply loved and cherished.