Activities at Upton Bay Care Home

Activities are an integral part of life at our care home. We want to ensure that the people we support have as much fun as possible during their time with us, so it’s important that our activities programme is created with the interests of residents in mind. Our skilled Activities Coordinators bring a certain uniqueness to the home that can’t be found anywhere else, and which is reflected in the activities they organise.

Enriching life
Watch our video on life enrichment in our homes.

Karen Grant

Activities Lead, Dementia Champion

I first worked in the care sector in 2010, starting in domiciliary care and progressing to Care Coordinator. I have since gained a wealth of experience in dedicated dementia and residential activities, working as a peripatetic activities coordinator in 16 out of 20 homes within a group, and then in 2018, I was part of a team that commissioned a new luxury care home, where I was an Activities Team Leader.

I enjoy making wishes come true for residents: in February 2015, I organised my first wedding in a care home. The lady resident who was living with dementia was unable to travel to Hertfordshire for her granddaughters wedding, so I brought the wedding to her. I organised a wedding blessing at the home; we had a vicar, a choir, all of the bridal party, the flowers, a buffet, a wedding cake, champagne—the full works.

In 2017, I organised a smaller wedding in the garden, and this was a special wish for a gentleman resident to see his granddaughter married. Organising these special moments gives me a lot of pleasure, knowing I have made them feel special and to give families that happiness and see them smile.

I cannot wait to welcome our residents into their wonderful new home and help to bring smiles, joy and laughter to each day.

Karen is also one of our dementia champions

Life-encriching activities booklet

Read our brochure 'Life-enriching activities' for more information about life in our care homes.
Read our brochure

Activities and Events Partnerships

As part of our bespoke life-enrichment programmes, we host a number of live virtual events in the home on a regular basis through a number of partnerships with places of interest and world class performance companies

Life at Upton Bay Care Home

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Snowdrop bulb planting at Hamworthy wood

Another memorable trip that brought joy and connection to our Upton Bay residents. This time, our residents from Memory Lane had the opportunity to plant snowdrop bulbs in the woodland, creating lasting memories and moments of togetherness Under the guidance and support of our dedicated staff, the residents enjoyed a tranquil walk through the woodland, embracing the beauty of nature and the promise of new beginnings symbolized by the snowdrop bulbs they planted. The activity not only provided a sense of accomplishment but also fostered a deep connection with the earth and the changing seasonsFollowing the bulb planting, our residents embarked on a quick trip to Poole Quay, where they had the delightful experience of feeding the ducks. The simple act of connecting with nature and interacting with the wildlife brought smiles to their faces and added a touch of joy to their day
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Winning the care awards

In an incredible feat, the Upton Bay team has emerged victorious at the Barchester Care Awards today! Alain clinched the prestigious Chef of the Year award, while Mark secured the Health Safety Champion award of the yearMevin, along with the entire team and residents, beams with pride at this remarkable achievement. We can't wait to bring these accolades back to Upton Bay and share the joy with everyone. Well done, boys - your hard work and dedication have truly paid off
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Jenny our caring canine

We want to extend our deepest gratitude for your recent visit to Upton Bay. Your presence brought immense joy to our community as we had the pleasure of stroking you, chatting with you, and seeing you enjoy those delightful treats. Your visit truly brightened our dayWe are overjoyed to hear that you are feeling better now, Jenny. Your well-being is of great importance to us, and we are grateful for the love and happiness you bring to our community every time you visit with your caring mum, Jan. Your presence is truly cherished, and we cannot wait to welcome you back to Upton Bay soon
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Visit to Corfe Castle

The Upton Bay Community had a truly fabulous afternoon at the National Trust Corfe Castle Tea Rooms. Basking in the warm Autumn sunshine, residents gathered outside, enjoying cappuccinos, coffee, and tea while admiring the breathtaking view of Corfe Castle During the outing, residents shared cherished memories of previous visits to Corfe Castle, exploring pictures and local sights. The atmosphere was enriched by the presence of black rooks and a friendly robin that joined the group at times, adding to the joy of the day
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Visit to the RNLI

Residents June, Dorothy, Christine, and Jean from Upton Bay Community recently enjoyed a delightful afternoon outing to the RNLI. The group savored tea and coffee at the Slipway Bar while overlooking the impressive Lifeboats and luxurious boats in the area The residents expressed their gratitude for the well-organized trip and the excellent assistance provided by the staff at the RNLI. Everyone agreed that it was a lovely afternoon spent together, creating cherished memories.  A big thank you to all the staff involved in coordinating the car parking and ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience for everyone on the trip
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Bus trip to Rockley Park

Upton Bay Bus trip to Rockley Park this morning.The day began with residents enjoying the crisp Autumn sunshine, sipping on hot chocolate and tea as they engaged in delightful conversations with Karen, our Activities LeadDuring the outing, Chloe, our Activities Assistant, stumbled upon a stunning scallop shell while searching for seashells. Evelyn's fascination with the discovery led us to bring the shell back home, creating a cherished memory for all.

Upcoming events

Knit and Knatter - weekly group

Open to the community. This fun, social group meet every Thursday 10.30-12.00 to knit and chat. Refreshments included

More information

Christmas Fair - Saturday 7th December

 Join us for a fun, Christmas event with a variety of stalls including candles, cards, gifts for all your family and friends. Join santa in his grotto 

More information