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.
Karen Grant
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
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
Valentine's Day
For lunch, Chef Vicky prepared a delicious three-course Valentine's meal that everyone enjoyed. In the afternoon, the residents on Memory Lane engaged in a creative activity with Activities Chloe, making a Strawberry and Blueberry Heart. This not only provided a fun experience but also contributed to their nutrition and hydration goals.
All residents also had the pleasure of indulging in heart-shaped shortbread made by Chef Alain and a fabulous chocolate cake made by Chef Vicky, along with a cup of tea. The Residential Residents had a chance to socialize and write meaningful messages on heart-shaped cards
Pancake Day
At Upton Bay, we celebrated Shrove Tuesday in style, thanks to our talented chefs Alain and Vicky. They prepared delicious pancakes for each resident, ensuring everyone had a delightful treat for afternoon tea. The residents had the freedom to choose their favourite fillings, ranging from chocolate, strawberry, caramel, honey to the classic lemon and sugar, which proved to be a popular choice.
The festivities included a pancake tossing activity, in which nearly all the residents eagerly participated. It was heart warming to see them enjoy this tradition and share stories and memories associated with Shrove Tuesday.
Chinese New Year
Residents Margaret Gardener and Barbara Eskridge, along with their carer Katie and activities coordinator Melody, had a delightful time participating in the Dragon dance at Upton Bay. The residents had great fun watching the vibrant dragon which they made themselves to make its way through the corridors.
To add to the festive spirit, a lively afternoon tea party was organised, featuring delicious Fairy Cakes adorned with Chinese-themed toppers and Fortune Cookies. Chloe and the residents took the opportunity to discuss the customs and facts surrounding Chinese New Year, creating a wonderful atmosphere of learning and celebration.
During the gathering, one resident fondly shared memories of their past holiday in China, adding an extra touch of nostalgia to the event.
Inter-generational activity for Chinese new year
As the Chinese New Year approached, our community came together to create a magnificent Chinese Dragon for the upcoming celebration. It was a collaborative effort that involved residents of all ages, showcasing their creativity and teamwork. The vibrant colors and intricate details truly captured the spirit of the occasion.
Bus trip to Wareham, Corfe Castle and Swanage
On a bright, sunny and warm afternoon, residents of our community embarked on a delightful bus trip with Chloe and Mark Driver. The journey took us through picturesque landscapes as we visited Wareham, Corfe Castle, and Swanage.
Halfway through the trip, we made a refreshing stop to enjoy some coffee or tea along with delectable home made cake, all served right on the bus. This added a touch of cosiness and indulgence to our adventure.
Steve Linn's musical extravaganza
Steve Linn's Hilarious Performance at Upton Bay
We are delighted to share with you the wonderful experience we had when Steve Linn graced our community once again with his incredible moves and infectious enthusiasm. His recent performance brought laughter, joy, and a renewed sense of camaraderie to all who attended.
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
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
