Activities at Tyspane Care Home

Tyspane Care Home celebrated Cocktail Day in style! Residents, families, friends and community enjoyed a selection of delicious cocktails in the Community Garden, Activities Lounge, and, where necessary, in residents' rooms. The atmosphere was one of merriment and joy. The cocktails were mixed, shaken and stirred, and served with nibbles whilst listening to a specially designed cocktail playlist created by residents. 

The playlist, like the cocktails, was a balance between lively and relaxed. It featured upbeat, mild tempo songs that encouraged mingling without overwhelming conversations. Some of the classical songs are: L-O-V-E by Nat King Cole, Beyond the Sea by Bobby Darin and Come with Me by Frank Sinatra.         

Red represents a powerful, high-energy colour associated with intense emotions, passion, danger and action. It physically stimulates the body, increasing heart rate and appetite. Symbolically, it bridges the gap between love and anger, and signifies power, courage and urgency across various cultures. So, when the “Red Petticoats,” a clog dancing group from Ilfracombe, visited Tyspane Care Home for residents, friends, families, friends and the community, the power of red shone out. Clog dancing is a high-energy, percussive folk dance, originating from the Appalachian mountains and the UK, characterised by rhythmic footwork where dancers use shoes with metal taps to create sound. The ladies combined elements of tap, Irish step dance, and folk traditions with a focus on both sound and intricate food movement. 

Tyspane Care Home was a blaze of colour and movement, the afternoon was simply spectacular. Helen (Resident) stated, “I thoroughly enjoyed it, they are so talented.”

Thank you, Red Petticoats, residents never stopped talking about your magical show.      
 

At Tyspane Care Home, forming relationships with residents is a priority, one which requires a combination of open communication, emotional validation, and practical support that treats the resident as an individual. Honest and open relationships are essential for the resident's quality of life, focusing on dignity, trust and active engagement. One of the ways to foster these relationships is to develop social connections through tailored activities, such as external visits and trips to places that are meaningful to residents, allowing them to continue with their hobbies or interests, or create new experiences.

Today, Donna and Ellie from Tyspane Care Home, took the opportunity to visit North Devon coastal paths and villages where the sun was shining. They spent the day creating new memories and experiences before a light supper in the evening.

Aime Bown (General Manager) stated, 'Tyspane Care Home facilitates regular external trips and outings as part of their Life Enrichment Programme, aiming to keep residents connected to their local communities. Activities often include minibus trips to places of interest, shopping, garden centres, and further afield adventures.'  

May the sun shine all the time on special relationships.    

Today, Tyspane Care Home was visited by Braunton Academy Students for a spot of miniature model making with moving parts. Model making requires sustained attention, and cognitive effort, which can help improve concentration and mindfulness.  
Students, residents, friends, families, community, professionals, and staff displayed excellent creative expression, a sense of accomplishment when completing a model, whether it was a detailed architectural model or a function produce prototype. The room was full of social interactions, bringing everyone together, whilst fostering friendships and team work.

Thank you, Braunton Academy for a wonderful morning.

At Tyspane Care Home, we understand that museums play a crucial role in supporting the well-being of our elderly residents by providing cognitive stimulation, social interaction, and opportunities for personal enrichment. Engaging with cultural activities, such as museum visits, can significantly reduce the risk of developing depression and reducing overall well-being.

Aime Bown (General Manager) believes in offering a range of events and outings that support resident’s interests, abilities, and cultural diversity, with each activity designed to enhance life skills and provide a feeling of purpose and self-worth. 

Today, excited residents boarded the mini-bus for a trip to Barnstaple Museum, Barnstaple being the nearest local town, one which our residents are familiar with, and many call home. The museum was a true inspiration, it was a dynamic space that nurtured intellectual curiosity, emotional depth, social connection, and cultural awareness.     

Today, Year 7 students from Braunton Academy spent the morning with Rob (Tyspane Care Home, Physiotherapist) and George (Tyspane Care Home, Assistant Physiotherapist).  Rob talked to the students about his role as a physiotherapist, what inspired him to become a physiotherapist, careers and university courses that involved physiotherapists as well as answering any questions the students had.

Rob's aim was to broaden the students' horizons, shift the focus from "What do you want to be" to allowing students to explore their core interests and strengths, and helping them build confidence, whilst challenging stereotypes of working as a physiotherapist in a care home.

The students were able to observe Rob and George engaging with residents, and when opportunities arose to gain hands-on experience of what it is like to work with specialist equipment first-hand.  The students were engaged, asked challenging questions, and were able to link the work of a physiotherapist to the knowledge they had gained in their academic studies at Braunton Academy.

It really was an inspirational experience, being part of this very special morning, different generations socialising, sharing knowledge, hopes, interests and aspirations.

Thank you, Rob and George for making this happen.                   

The phrase "the pen is mightier than the sword" highlights the enduring belief that written words can affect change more profoundly than violence. Coined by Edward Bulwer-Lytton in 1839 for his play Richelieu; Or the Conspiracy, it emphasises that communication, ideas, and documentation can influence societies, politics, and culture more effectively than force alone.

This important message was the theme of the storytelling, songs, poetry, and music for David Clinch and Friends when they performed this afternoon. Tyspane Care Home. Residents, students, friends, families, professionals and staff listed intently focusing on the understanding of the speaker’s inner world.

It was a mellow and memorable afternoon, Thank you to everyone who made this afternoon so special.         

The aprons are on, the ingredients are prepped, and the excitement is already simmering. The charity Cook-Off has officially arrived! This isn’t just about great food (though there will be plenty of that); it’s about coming together as a team, supporting a good cause, and maybe stirring up a little friendly rivalry along the way. Duncan Edwards (Managing Director) will be representing the South West Division, which includes Tyspane Care Home. Duncan will be demonstrating his creativity and culinary skills, sprinkled with a touch of flair and glamour.

To support Duncan, our very own chef (Rob Davis) prepared for residents today a sample of the dishes Duncan and his fellow competitors will be creating. Rob is a master chef, a true professional, his kitchen is one of high energy, full of optimism and when you pass his door the dense, layered aromas drift out. The smells are rarely one thing, but rather a “ripe combination” of daily preparations, often a mix of meat, vegetables, and intense heat.

Fingers crossed for Duncan; we look forward to hearing the results late this afternoon.     

Tyspane Care Home, understands and believes that engaging in care work can lead to personal growth, such as developing communication, problem-solving, and teamwork skills, which are valuable in any professional setting. Offering work placements at Tyspane Care Home plays a vital role in shaping young adults’ careers and provides them with valuable skills and experience that can benefit their future in the social care industry.

Today, Tyspane Care Home was joined by two young adults, Taraivina and Emily, who spent the day socialising with residents, families, friends, staff, and the local community as well as delivering outstanding activities on a one-to-one basis, and in a group.

Irene (Respite Resident), “It has been an absolute pleasure to talk to Taraivina and Emily today, thank you.”

Mary, (Resident), “Thank you for helping me with my painting.”

Aime Bown (General Manager), stated that, “Work placements make a genuine difference in the lives of individuals and contribute to community wellbeing. Placements at Tyspane Care Home are an excellent opportunity for individuals looking to kickstart their careers in social care and make a positive impact in their communities.”    

A massive congratulations to Chenayi on passing your Level 5, Leader in Adult Care, with a distinction. Everyone at Tyspane Care Home is extremely proud of your achievement.

Chenayi is a powerful woman. She is confident, resilient, and influential, combining inner strength, intelligence, and empathy to lead, inspire, and make a meaningful impact. Chenayi embodies a blend of emotional, intellectual, and moral strength. Her independence allows her to manage her life on her own terms, and her decisiveness and resourcefulness enable her to solve problems creatively and effectively.

David (Resident Ambassador), “Well done Chenayi, we are so proud of you.”

Aime Bown (General Manager) proudly stated, “Congratulations on your outstanding exam results; distinction! Your commitment, perseverance, and determination have truly paid off. Wishing you continued success in all your future endeavours."  

Picture a young woman walking into Tyspane Care Home, many years ago, full of energy, walking through the doors, she doesn't yet know the challenges she'll face, the friendships she'll make, or the countless lives she'll touch. That woman was Helen. Yes, our very own Helen Whitehead, and from that moment on, she didn't just work at Tyspane Care Home, she became part of the very heartbeat of Tyspane Care Home. 

Over the years, Helen has worn many hats, activities co-ordinator, problem solver, speak-up champion, mentor, and, on more than one occasion, miracle worker. Helen has been the steady hand in times of change, the calm voice when things got tough, and the first to celebrate when things went well.      

Helen's dedication hasn't just been measured in years, but in countless moments she's gone above and beyond; staying late to make sure her work was perfect, offering a listening ear when someone needed support, and bringing her trademark warmth and humour to even the busiest of days. It's easy to measure a career in numbers, thousands of hours worked, countless tasks completed, but the real measure of Helen's career is the people she's inspired, the standards she's set, and the culture she's helped shape. Her legacy is woven into the very fabric of Tyspane Care Home, in the way we treat each other, in the pride we take in our work, and in the friendships that will last long after today.     

While today marks the end of her professional chapter here, it's also the start of a brand-new adventure. Whether it's travelling, spending more time with family, or simply enjoying a well-earned lie-in on a Monday, we know she'll embrace retirement with the same passion she's brought to her work. Helen, on behalf of everyone at Tyspane Care Home, thank you for your years of service, your unwavering commitment, and the joy you've brought into our lives. You leave behind not just a career to be proud of, but a legacy that will inspire us for years to come. Wishing you health, happiness, and endless new memories in this exciting next chapter. You will be deeply missed but never forgotten.           

Congratulations Leanne on completing the Foundation in Palliative Care Champions Programme.

Leanne volunteered to become Palliative Care Champion because she wanted to continue to maintain high standards of care and ensure dignity and comfort for residents and their families when they needed it most.  Being a palliative champion, Leanne will now focus on improving wellbeing for residents needing end-of-life care, providing mentorship, and ensuring high-quality compassionate support.

Aime Bown (General Manager) said, "The benefits of having a Palliative Care Champion are improved quality of life, better management of physical and emotional symptoms, increased control over treatment decisions, and reduced hospital visits. Congratulations Leanne, an amazing achievement."

Tyspane Care Home is proud of you, Leanne.   

Thank you, Braunton Caen Rotary Memory Café for inviting Tyspane Care Home residents to your wonderful monthly group. The ladies performed from the Ilfracombe Musical Memories, singing for those living with memory difficulties, Alzheimer’s, and dementia.

Memory loss can be so isolating for people it affects and their families, so groups which offer support and a break from the same daily routines are most welcoming. It is wonderful that those living with memory difficulties, dementia, Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s, are able to spend time somewhere where others are aware of their situation and understand.

Thank you to everyone who made the afternoon special.  

Today, Tyspane Care Home supported Duncan Edwards (Managing Director, South West Region) to raise funds for Barchester’s Charitable Foundation.  The Foundation supports local communities and contributes to individuals fulfilling their aspirations.

Tyspane Care Home Baking Club baked fresh chocolate brownies and scones to sell to residents, families, friends, professionals, community, and staff. Whilst Babs Spear (Head of Physiotherapy Department) delivered feet, shoulder, and head massages for a small donation.

The day went spectacularly well, the atmosphere was electric. Thank you to everyone for supporting this worthwhile cause.   

This afternoon, David and Jim (aka David Clinch and Friends) joined residents, families, friends, and staff in the lounge for an afternoon of poetry, story-telling, singing, music and jovial jokes. The atmosphere is best described as mellow, free from harshness or high energy intensity, making for an ideal tranquil setting. The entertainment was soft, slow tempo, and the relaxing sounds calmed everyone; easy on the ears.

David Clinch, “We love performing at Tyspane Care Home, the residents are wonderful, it is a pleasure.”

Thank you, David and Jim, you are two exceptional gentlemen who have volunteered at Tyspane Care Home for over twenty years.