Celebrating life at Barchester

We were not going to let the autumnal winter blast of much cooler weather dampen the spirits of some of our residents. We got our dedicated Minibus all warmed up and whisked a bunch of willing residents off to complete some retail therapy at Ashford Designer Outlet, in the adjoining scenic county of Kent.

The opportunity for a noble whizz or even a sedate walk around the variety of shopping stores onsite, was not to be missed. The order take was furious with staff at Mortain Place suspecting some very lucky grandchildren will be receiving well deserved, fun gifts this Christmas. Some relatives and friends will also be receiving the obligatory posh socks or even new slippers! The mystery, wrapped within the element of surprise is all part of the fun and adds to the excitement of the family amusement and joyous merriment, exchanging gifts brings during the festive period.

The residents and staff at Mortain Place, Eastbourne, love the trips out and about, it’s a great way to complete everyday tasks, many of us take for granted. The interaction with the wider world has its own place and delights their residents with the boundless pleasure of enjoying their lives, immersing themselves in the community and putting smiles on the faces of loved ones at this important time for us all.

Our Remembrance Celebration was filled with heartfelt moments, touching songs, and cherished memories of those we hold dear.

A huge thank you to Maggie for her soulful performance and to everyone who joined us in honouring our loved ones. We let the beautiful voice of Maggie fill our hearts with comfort, reflection, and hope.

We welcomed over 100 guests to our fireworks extravaganza on 5^th November. The event was joyfully opened by Christina Ewbank, Chief Executive, Eastbourne unLtd Chamber of Commerce.

We were delighted to see friends and families of all the residents attending last night and some very welcome additional visitors from the local community too. On offer to tempt the palate was a wide range of typical seasonal food options, including jacket potatoes with various fillings, hot dogs, and refreshments, which prompted residents to reminisce regarding when they were youthful and enjoyed fireworks as they were growing up! Entertainment was provided by musicians, Lynn and Mark. Congratulations to Jackie and Gavin, who won a barrow of booze during the evening, kindly donated by Defiant Sports.

The fireworks were truly uplifting and the glorious display went on for just over half an hour. The lovely family fun atmosphere was rounded off with sparklers on fresh carrots, allowing all ages to enjoy the fun of spelling their own names, with a sweeping motion in the crisp dark night air. Mortain place would like to thank everyone for attending and getting into the spirit of a joyous get together, having fun making memories, meeting new acquaintances and old friends.

It was a glittering night of celebration at The Kimpson Hotel in Manchester on Saturday night 8th November as the best of Social Care workers gathered for the Great British Care Awards. 

May, Deputy manager, Adrian Senior Nurse and Honey Joy were successful regional finalists but, sadly, not the overall winners – It is a great achievement to have been regional finalists, and we celebrate excellence in Care.       

At Latimer Court, residents like to have different singers come to perform and entertain our residents that live with us. They choose in the residents' meetings to have Debbie Miles and Sandy Lawrence. The activity team have booked new singers; Joy Mills, Thomas Hinks, saxophonist, and singers from a company called Mini Concerts, which have been greatly received. 

We had a family who arranged birthday celebrations for their mum and booked Nick Burton to come along to perform for the residents, and they really enjoyed Nick singing. We listen to our residents and will be having him back to perform in the future.

Our residents had an fantastic time visiting our sister home, Rosewater Place, for their Silent Halloween Disco!

There were plenty of spooky costumes, laughter, and dancing — all while enjoying the magic of a silent disco! A huge thank you to Rosewater for such a fantastic afternoon full of music, smiles, and Halloween spirit.     

Wilsmere House would like to extend our warmest wishes to all our residents, families, and team members who have been celebrating the festival of light

May this occasion bring renewed hope, happiness, and prosperity to everyone.