Celebrating life at Barchester

We celebrated Greek Independence Day this afternoon, enjoying traditional Greek music and a variety of their local foods.

Residents enjoyed watching Greek dancing and learning more about the history.

Many of our residents have visited Greece, and enjoyed reminiscing about their memories.       

Our wonderful Jenny has been at it again, creating the most beautiful cake for Barchester Healthcare’s Easter cake competition (Resident Category).

Titled ‘Spring Flower Meadow’, each flower on this cake has been made individually with so much love. Can you spot the ladybirds, bees and butterflies too?

We have submitted our entry, so please everyone have your fingers crossed for our lovely resident to win. We’ll keep you posted on our progress!        

Tim Sheppard came from Tavistock Therapy Goats with two pygmy goats. Ron, who is still a baby and one-year-old, came along with Chief Goat Bon Bon, who is two years old. They went through the home and visited many residents who all thought the goats were very cute and tiny. 

Having the opportunity to see live animals close at hand is really very therapeutic, and we look forward to Tim coming back in the future. Next time, he may bring an owl and, as both owls and goats are animals most of us have kept as pets, they are a real treat for the animal lovers among us.    

Today Frances spent time engaging in one of her most meaningful and enjoyable activities — interacting with a therapy dog. Frances had always had a deep love for dogs, fondly remembering her own beloved dog Morag, who brought her much happiness in the past.

During the visit, Frances was visibly happy and excited. She gently stroked Cody, spoke to him with warmth and affection, and enjoyed walking him on a lead around the home. These moments brought her great comfort and joy, allowing her to express her caring nature and relive cherished memories.

Frances appeared relaxed, content, and emotionally uplifted throughout the interaction. Spending time with Cody provided her with a strong sense of connection, companionship, and purpose, greatly supporting her overall wellbeing.

It was truly heartwarming to see Frances so engaged and happy. We are very pleased to continue supporting her in attending therapy dog visits, as they bring her genuine joy and meaningful engagement.      

Today Jess spent time in the garden, engaging in one of her favourite activities — caring for the flowers. She showed clear enjoyment while tending to the plants. Jess appeared calm and content, taking pride in nurturing the garden and watching it flourish.

During this time, Jess was relaxed and at ease, occasionally commenting on the flowers and the beauty of the garden around her. This activity provided her with a sense of purpose and connection to nature, helping to support her emotional wellbeing and maintain a peaceful, positive mood.

It was lovely to see Jess so engaged and fulfilled while spending time outdoors. Gardening continues to be a meaningful and beneficial activity for her, encouraging both gentle physical movement and a sense of achievement.

We are pleased to continue supporting Jess in spending time in the garden, ensuring she has regular opportunities to enjoy and care for the flowers she loves.  

Rose took part in the Movement and Fitness class with Amanda, which she attends every Thursday and clearly enjoys very much. During the session, Rose actively participated in a variety of exercises, all set to music, which created a lively and uplifting atmosphere.

Rose followed the movements with enthusiasm, engaging both her body and mind throughout the session. The different types of exercises helped to keep her interested and motivated, while also supporting her mobility and coordination. She responded very positively to the music, which encouraged her participation and added to her enjoyment.

It was wonderful to see how this activity lifted Rose’s mood and filled her with energy. She appeared happy, engaged, and revitalised by the experience, benefiting both physically and emotionally.

We are delighted to continue supporting Rose in attending these sessions each week, as they provide her with a great source of enjoyment, promote her wellbeing, and help her feel energised and positive.

Staff and residents had a fantastic time visiting Aberdeen Art Gallery where they all enjoyed the multiple themed rooms with different styles, periods and ideas.  Residents and staff had a brilliant time taking a stroll around the gallery admiring the classical portraits and abstract and contemporary works, afterwards they enjoyed a lovely cup of tea and some bakes at the café.

Activities Assistant, Harsha said: “We absolutely love being able to take our residents out and about to visit the art gallery, it makes us so happy to be able to access venues like this.  It has been a fantastic day and we’ve all thoroughly enjoyed ourselves.” Bob, resident said: “There was so much to see, I want to go visit again and look at each piece of art slowly.” 

Residents were recently treated to a special experience from Shaun our chef who served up wonderful scallops.

This delicious dish was enjoyed by all, with residents praising it as a real treat and something a little different.