Celebrating life at Barchester

Staff swapped their uniforms for costumes on National Elf Day (Wednesday, December 3rd) in an effort to raise Christmas cheer as well as raise money for Alzheimer’s Society. Launched by the Alzheimer’s Society and delivered direct from the North Pole, Elf Day was created to sprinkle some festive cheer on fundraising towards finding a cure for dementia. From stripy socks to head-to-toe elf outfits, anything goes – there’s snow better way to raise money to help beat dementia.

On the day, residents and staff at North Park were able to enjoy elf-themed games, including best-dressed elf competition, Christmas quiz, and elf-bingo paired with a festive-themed spread as the team at the home donned their elfish apparel.  The Elves could be seen Elf'ing about the Wards at Darlington Memorial Hospital, spreading festive Joy to all, whilst delivering sweet bags and festive cheers to the Children’s wards and the frail elderly wards.

We were delighted to receive a surprise visit from the granddaughter of a past resident of our home.  Kelly and her daughters presented a gift to the home filled with a selection of sweet treats for everyone to enjoy as a special thank you for caring for her grandmother.

Kelly said, “thank you for the companionship, care and love which was given to my grandmother, Jean during her time in the home. It meant a lot to us as a family – thank you”.

Residents enjoyed an afternoon of live musical entertainment by popular vocalist, Karen Clegg who performed a medley of hits from across the decades.

It was a fabulous way to start our festive activities and everyone is looking forward to the next performance.

Our home warmly welcomed Amanda from Jatec Healthcare on Wednesday 26th November for a special community ear wax removal clinic, offering free ear checks to residents and local community members.

The clinic provided an excellent opportunity for people to receive professional ear health advice and checks in a relaxed and friendly environment. Amanda’s expertise was greatly appreciated by everyone who attended, helping to promote better hearing health in the community.
 

Elvis was in the building to shake, rattle and switch on the lights! 

We had an unforgettable, amazing afternoon at Iverley View as our very own Elvis joined us to officially light up the home for Christmas! 

Residents, families and staff were all ‘shook up’ by his amazing performance, it was brilliant!

Thank you to everyone who joined us for the fun, music, great food, and magical lights!

Long live the King….. and long live the Christmas cheer! 

Elvis has now left the building!!!! What a great turn out, bring Elvis back!!

In the afternoon we went to Carr Farm, a popular local garden centre near us. 

They always have amazing Christmas decorations and set-ups. It really did get us in the merry mood picking out presents and Christmas cards for loved ones. We finished the afternoon off with a cup of tea and cake in the café.

We all gathered together to show our respects and held a two-minute silence. We watched the service on TV and then in the afternoon we sang some well-known songs by a spectacular singer, Jenny. 

It brought us all happiness on such a sorrowful day, but it brought us together in song.