Activities at Hickathrift House Care Home

Richard, a resident at the home was the owner of a racehorse and a lifelong supporter of the sport. Before coming to Hickathrift House, Richard was a racehorse owner and spent his time looking after his horse, Sleepy Blue Ocean. He has always wanted to return to the racecourse and be part of the atmosphere again, so the Hickathrift team made his wish a reality on the 7th of May 2024.

Since joining Hickathrift House, Richard often reminisces about his many days at the racecourse and training grounds with Sleepy Blue Ocean, winning and losing races and the best jockeys he worked with. He last raced his horse in 2009 but to Richard, those are some of his most vivid happiest memories, so our team worked on preparing a beautiful day at the races for him and his friends.

Residents across our services had a wonderful time joining Cadbury for an interactive virtual talk on their fascinating 200-year history.

Residents joining learnt interesting facts about the chocolate giant, shared memories, and reminisced about their favourite sweet treats.

It was a heartwarming experience filled with laughter, nostalgia, and plenty of chocolatey goodness!

Staff and residents welcomed their first Relative Ambassador and re-elected Resident Ambassador to the team. Firstly, the daughter of a care home resident has been given a new role at the home to help support the families of other residents. Viv's Mother, Joan, joined Hickathrift House in 2023 and ever since, Viv has become part of the Hickathrift House family, helping residents, relatives, and staff. This new role is to help other families considering care options as well as those whose loved ones are living there.

Viv, Relative’s Ambassador said "I'm a very passionate, caring person and I am always happy to help anyone. I like joining in the activities with mum and the other residents and chatting to new relatives about my experience at Hickathrift. I couldn't ask for a better home for mum".

Residents were thrilled to be able to visit the most colourful event of the year, the Norfolk Tulips fields, that raise funds for The Norfolk Hospice Tapping House! The vibrant colours of Norfolk's famous tulip fields were just awe-inspiring and magical. 

Residents and staff were laughing as we frolicked through the tulips, shared our favourite types and loved seeing all the children playing. We also are so pleased to have helped raise funds for this meaningful cause.
Resident Rosemary said, "What did I do to deserve this lovely treat to the tulip fields. You're all so kind to have taken us. One of the most beautiful sights I've ever seen. Even with the wind, I've enjoyed every minute".

To celebrate National Pet Day we had a spectacular visit from Michelle's Animal Therapy & Petting Party! Residents and staff loved meeting all the different, beautiful animals, especially Doris the chicken. Simon the Persian cat and Boots the Ragdoll went to visit residents in their rooms and Kim loved brushing Boots’ soft fur. Joan was extra brave and had a cuddle with Ed the bearded dragon! Brenda adored the beautiful hamster and Elsie gave Diego one last cuddle before they left.

It’s amazing to see the fantastic impact animals can have on us all, particularly those living with Dementia. Everyone enjoyed learning about these fabulous animals, reminiscing about their pets and experiencing a variety of sensory stimulations.

We've had a wonderful fun-packed week celebrating Easter at Hickathrift House. From Easter bonnet crafts to welcoming the Pilgrim Cross for coffee morning with handmade hot cross buns and of course our fabulous Easter Bunny Meet and Greet. Our week has included Easter chocolate games, themed picture bingo, a themed namaste sensory trolley, and making an incredible Simnel cake in Baking Club with the help of our amazing Head Chef, Andy.

Joy, a new resident at Hickathrift House said, "I haven't made a Simnel cake in such a long time. I adored the bonnet making with our volunteer Caitlin. What wonderful experiences we’ve had together.  It is a traditional Easter celebration".