Activities at Cherry Trees Care Home

This week at Cherry Trees became something quietly special, as everyone came together to mark Mental Health Awareness Week with one simple but powerful idea: kindness.

At the heart of it all was the Kindness Cart. As it made its gentle journey through the home, it carried more than just treats, it carried thoughtfulness, care, and moments of connection. Stopping by staff, residents, relatives, and visitors alike, it brought with it smiles that spread just as easily as the sweet scent of homemade flapjacks.        

Inside the cart were small but meaningful offerings: slices of cake, biscuits, sweets, and handwritten cards, each lovingly created by residents. Tucked between them were inspirational quotes, little reminders that even on difficult days, kindness can still find its way through. The flapjacks, freshly made by Head Chef Ayshat, quickly became a favourite, enjoyed with warm conversations and shared laughter.

Adding to the charm was the person-centred Clef Doll, who accompanied the cart on its travels. Wherever it went, it was met with gentle hands and warm embraces, becoming a comforting presence that brought an extra layer of joy to each visit.

There was something simple yet powerful in these small gestures. A kind word, a shared treat, a moment taken to connect, each one made a difference. As the cart continued its journey throughout the week, it created a ripple effect, reminding everyone that kindness does not have to be grand to be meaningful.

Today was a truly special day at Cherry Trees, as we welcomed two very charming guests for a delightful Easter surprise, Ellie and Damson, a pair of beautiful miniature horses. 

Dressed in adorable bunny ears and full of gentle curiosity, Ellie and Damson made their way from room to room, greeting our residents with nuzzles, soft steps, and plenty of Easter cheer. The joy on everyone’s faces said it all. Laughter filled the corridors, stories were shared, and the simple magic of spending time with animals created memories we know will stay with our residents for a long time.

We are incredibly grateful to our wonderful host Karen, who brought Ellie and Damson along for the visit, and to Philipa, who supported throughout the day and helped make the experience so smooth and enjoyable.

It was a heart-warming afternoon that brought comfort, connection, and smiles to all of us at Cherry Trees, the perfect way to celebrate the Easter season.    

Nutrition and Hydration Week brought a burst of colour and joy to Cherry Trees as we set off on our “Eat the Rainbow” journey. Each day introduced a new theme, new flavours, and plenty of shared smiles as our trolley travelled room to room. We began with blue, a tricky colour, but one we embraced with blueberry shakes and blue-tinted treats that sparked lots of conversation. Godfrey, our clef doll for Good Nutrition and a Positive Dining Experience, joined us from the very start, helping encourage residents to try something a little different.

Green Day arrived just in time for St Patrick’s Day, complete with lively Irish music, fresh green snacks, and even a cheeky shot of Guinness for those who fancied it. The atmosphere was full of laughter and toe-tapping as we spread a little Irish cheer throughout the home.

Next came a bright burst of yellow, with banana smoothies, pineapple, and lemon water bringing sunshine to everyone’s afternoon. There were plenty of giggles too, especially when the bananas became “phones” for a bit of playful fun. Our orange trolley followed, packed with melon, oranges, mango, peaches, carrot sticks, and refreshing juices. Staff joined in as well, turning the day into a whole home celebration filled with colour and connection.

We finished the week with a vibrant red theme, offering cherry-topped cakes, fruity jelly, and cranberry punch. To make the day even more memorable, we celebrated Red Nose Day with fun photos and lots of laughter. As always, Godfrey was right there with us, helping deliver treats and joy in equal measure.

Nutrition and Hydration Week was a wonderful celebration of flavour, hydration, and togetherness, a colourful reminder of how small moments can brighten the whole home.     

Valentine’s Dating Advice Straight from the Experts! 

Love was definitely in the air this Valentine’s Day as our wonderful residents shared their best Valentine’s dating advice on the white board! From sweet sentiments to cheeky one-liners, their wisdom reminded us all about what truly matters when it comes to love.

With decades of experience in love, marriage, friendship and life, our residents proved that romance isn’t about grand gestures – it’s about the little things: patience, respect, shared laughter, and always making time for one another. 

Thank you to our amazing residents for reminding us that true love only grows stronger with time. We also made a special Valentine's afternoon tea for a few of our loving couples. It really was a day filled with love and laughter.    

A sprinkle of Christmas magic came to Cherry Trees recently. It was all thanks to Karen, our amazing host, and her lovely friend Phillipa with Karen’s adorable miniature ponies, Ellie and Damson! Dressed in their festive Christmas hats, these little sweethearts brought so much joy and laughter to our residents.
It was so heart-warming to see our residents' faces light up – pure, simple happiness! 

The staff loved the visit just as much. These types of activities spark beautiful memories and bring back cherished feelings for our residents. Animals have an incredible way of connecting with us, offering comfort and a sense of connection to past experiences.

A huge thank you to Karen, Phillipa Ellie, and Damson for making our day so special!   

VE Day unfolded as a day filled with warmth, remembrance, and celebration as residents, families, and staff came together to mark VE Day. The morning began peacefully with a craft session led by Racheal from NV Arts and Health. Around the tables, hands worked carefully and creatively, shaping and decorating beautiful VE Day wreaths. The room buzzed with gentle conversation, smiles, and shared moments of pride as each wreath began to take shape.

Soon after, the atmosphere lifted with energy as Yana B Konova led a lively Zumba session. Music filled the space, and before long, laughter and movement followed. Residents and staff alike joined in, clapping, stepping, and enjoying the rhythm together. It was impossible not to smile. Adding to the spirit of the day, Carly and Rachel dressed as Land Girls, a touch that brought both nostalgia and delight. Their outfits sparked conversations and memories, perfectly tying into the significance of the occasion.

As the day continued, everyone gathered in the courtyard, where the celebrations carried on beneath clear skies. Flags fluttered gently in the warm weather while the sound of live music from Beccie Marshall filled the air. Residents enjoyed slices of red, white, and blue cakes alongside cups of tea and coffee, creating a simple but joyful scene of togetherness.

One of the most powerful moments came when Margaret shared her memories of her younger years as a nurse. With quiet pride, she showed the badges she had worn, each one holding a story. Her words captured the room, offering a touching reminder of the experiences and history carried by those around them.

By the end of the day, it was clear that this had been more than just a celebration. It was a time to reflect, to connect, and to honour the past while enjoying the present. Everyone who took part helped make it a truly memorable occasion.     

There’s a wonderful buzz in the air at Cherry Trees, and for good reason , for the second year in a row!!  we are proud to have been crowned overall winners of Alcester Window Wanderland. 

After taking home the top prize last year, our team and residents were thrilled to take part again, pouring creativity, care, and community spirit into every detail of our display. To be recognised once more as the overall winner for Alcester feels incredibly special, and we couldn’t be prouder of everyone involved.

On Tuesday evening, Carly and Meg attended the Alcester Community Meeting, where they were presented with our certificate by Mayor David Henderson. This year’s award will soon take pride of place in our foyer, proudly displayed right beside last year’s. 
Our residents have also been enjoying some delicious celebratory biscuits throughout the week’s activities, adding an extra touch of sweetness to the occasion. 

A huge well done to everyone who helped bring our Window Wanderland display to life, and heartfelt thanks to our wonderful community for their continued support. We’re already looking forward to next year’s event, and who knows, perhaps we’ll be celebrating a hat trick!             

Our lovely lady residents enjoyed a truly special afternoon in the café as they got creative and crafted their own beautiful flower arrangements for Mother’s Day. 

The room was filled with laughter, chatter and a wonderful buzz of creativity as everyone selected their favourite flowers and designed arrangements that were as unique as they are. Watching each display come together was a joy—every bouquet bursting with colour, personality and pride.

We were delighted to welcome some relatives who joined in the fun too, making the day even more meaningful. Seeing families gathered around the tables, sharing stories, smiles and precious time together, brought an extra layer of warmth to the celebration. 

A huge well done to everyone for their stunning creations. By the end of the afternoon, the café was glowing with vibrant blooms, happy faces and the unmistakable feeling of a day well spent.     

We had a flipping good Pancake Day! Our residents enjoyed a truly delicious treat as we took a trolley stacked with fresh pancakes from room to room, spreading smiles (and sweet smells!) along the way.

Toppings included juicy raspberries, mango sauce, raspberry sauce, melted chocolate, and the all-time classic lemon & sugar, something for everyone to enjoy!

The fun didn’t stop there… we even brought a pan around with a pancake ready for tossing, giving everyone the chance to show off their flipping skills! Some brilliant attempts and lots of laughter all around.

A wonderful day filled with sweet treats, fun moments, and happy memories.  

Thursday 18th December Mrs. Claus paid a special visit to our residents, creating a such a wonderful heart-warming festive atmosphere. She also made room visits for some of our residents who were unable to get out of bed, bringing them the magic of holiday cheer and plenty of  smiles all round.

Everyone gathered in our cozy little grotto, lit up with fairy lights, reminiscing about Christmases past while sipping on mulled wine and enjoying delicious home-made mince pies. 

It was a magical afternoon filled with lots of laughter, stories, and holiday cheer, making it a truly memorable day for all.   

The aprons were tied tight, the ingredients lined up in careful rows, and a quiet hum of excitement filled the room before a single pan was even heated. Today wasn’t just any day, it was the Charity Cook-Off.

Two teams stood ready, each determined to claim victory. At one side were the Pressure Cookers, a formidable group led by the Managing Directors, their confidence as sharp as their knives. Across from them stood the Rolling Scones, the Senior Management and Executives, bringing with them a calm focus and a quiet but unmistakable competitive edge. As the clock began, the room came alive. Pans hissed, spoons clattered, and the air quickly filled with the rich scent of sizzling ingredients. Each team worked with precision and flair, guarding their secret ingredients closely while casting the occasional curious glance at their rivals. It wasn’t just about impressing the judges, it was about pride, teamwork, and supporting a cause that mattered.       

When the final dishes were presented, the judges had a difficult task ahead. Creativity met craft skills on every plate, and the results spoke for themselves. The winners were crowned to well-earned applause, but the spirit of the day went far beyond victory. It was in every shared laugh, every moment of collaboration, and every act of generosity. Inspired by the success of the cook-off, the energy carried on to Cherry Trees, where the challenge took on a more intimate and heartfelt form: a bake-off at home.       

In one corner stood Natalia, the second chef, steady and focused. On the other, Ayshat, the head chef, was confident and composed. Both approached the challenge with care, whisking, folding, and shaping their creations into something that promised both beauty and flavour. When the time came, the residents gathered as judges, Joan, Marjorie, Margaret, and Janet, each bringing their own keen eye and honest palate.

They began with Meringue A. “Moist, not too sweet, and tasty,” one remarked thoughtfully. Another smiled and added, “There’s a little crunch—and it tastes better than B.” A third described it as “melty and soft,” while another declared without hesitation, “Straight away the best for me.”

Then came Meringue B. “Very tasty with a little crunch,” one said, nodding appreciatively. “Creamy and lovely,” another agreed, though one gently noted, “I’d just like the outside a bit crispier.”

The room quieted as the verdict was decided. And then, with a sense of anticipation hanging in the air, the winner was announced… Head Chef Ayshat!

A ripple of excitement has swept through the Cherry Trees as we welcome the newest member of our community, a sparkling brand-new minibus. Its arrival marks more than just a new set of wheels, it opens the door to fresh adventures, wider horizons, and countless moments of joy for our residents.

From the moment it rolled onto our drive, the minibus has symbolised possibility. Soon it will be carrying our residents on day trips, community visits, and those simple but meaningful everyday outings that bring connection, laughter, and a sense of freedom. Each journey will help us create the kind of memories that stay with you, the ones that make life feel full.

Everyone here is buzzing with anticipation. The residents are already chatting about where they’d like to go first, and our team can’t wait to see the smiles, stories, and shared experiences this new chapter will bring.

This is just the beginning, and we’ll be sharing every step of the adventure. Stay tuned for updates as our new minibus takes us to places old and new, and helps us continue giving our residents the experiences they truly deserve.                

Some days remind us exactly why we do what we do, and this was one of those rare and beautiful moments. I had the privilege of accompanying Gwen to Greig Hall to watch her husband, Melvyn, perform with the Stratford Symphony Orchestra.

As the music began and Melvyn lifted his violin, Gwen’s face lit up with a joy that words can barely capture. It wasn’t just pride, it was love, memory, and connection all woven together in a single expression. Watching her take every note, completely absorbed in the moment, was truly priceless.    

At Cherry Trees, we always strive to make wishes come true for our residents, no matter how big or small. It was a perfect reminder of why that matters. This wasn’t simply a concert; it was a chance for Gwen and Melvyn to reconnect, to celebrate a shared passion, and to create new memories together.

I felt incredibly grateful to be invited into something so personal and meaningful. Moments like these are the heart of what we do, they stay with us, inspire us, and remind us that even the simplest wishes can hold extraordinary magic.

CLEF at Barchester stands for Care and Life Enrichment Framework. It is at the heart of everything we do here at Cherry Trees. It's our commitment to providing the best possible care and enriching the lives of our residents. It means we're always looking for ways to enhance our services, ensuring they are tailored, compassionate, and effective. We have decided to use these beautiful homemade dolls to talk about CLEF and help spread the word, so please welcome our newest members to our team!! 

Each doll has their own name, and here are a few of them. Sydney, embodies our dedication to quality assurance and continuous improvement. He reminds us to consistently evaluate our practices, seek feedback, and implement changes that make a real difference in our residents' well-being. We're committed to creating a warm, supportive, and stimulating environment where everyone thrives! Big shout out to Sydney from our Quality Assurance and Continuous Improvement team for overseeing the café this morning! 
Sydney made sure our chocolate cake was extra tasty and that the allergen board was clearly on display. 

Sydney worked closely with our amazing Head Chef Ayshat to make the café welcoming for everyone. Stop by and enjoy the deliciousness and inviting atmosphere! Morag and Angus, our clef dolls for Supporting and Involving Residents, Family and Friends  spent some time with Gill and her husband Ted, sharing smiles and reminding us what truly matters here at Cherry Trees, connection, involvement, and meaningful moments together.

Morag and Angus represent our commitment to making sure residents and their loved ones are always part of daily life, decisions, and special moments within our home. Because care is not just about looking after someone… it’s about including the people who matter most to them.

Thank you, Gill and Ted, for helping Morag and Angus on their journey!   

We had a truly fantastic day at our Cherry Trees Christmas Market on Friday 19th December! We would like to say a huge thank you to all the talented small businesses who showcased their handmade goodies. Our residents, their relatives, and our amazing staff had a wonderful time browsing and buying unique gifts. It was heart-warming to see so much festive cheer and community spirit!

We cannot wait for the summer to do it all over again! Keep an eye out for more Cherry Trees Markets coming in the near future.