Celebrating life at Barchester

Residents had a fang-tastic time at our Memory Lane Sensory Disco, with a spooky twist just in time for Halloween!

There were witches’ hats, plenty of laughter, and lots of singing and dancing to all the old classics. It was wonderful to see everyone smiling, moving, and making magical memories together!

Don’t forget; our Memory Lane Disco takes place on the last Monday of every month at 2pm, and everyone is welcome to come along and join the fun!

This Halloween we had some very special visitors! Residents were delighted to welcome local little trick-or-treaters who went door-to-door around the home, knocking on bedroom doors to collect their sweet treats! The smiles, laughter, and wonderful costumes truly brightened everyone’s day!

A huge thank you to all the children (and their parents!) who joined us and made this Halloween one to remember. Our residents absolutely loved seeing you all dressed up and sharing in the spooky fun!  

Residents had a very special visit for Remembrance Day, The children from ‘Little Bear Nursery’ joined us to learn all about the importance of remembrance. Together, they crafted beautiful poppies and listened with great curiosity as we talked about why we wear them each year.

Residents were absolutely delighted; enjoying cuddles, smiles, and giggles with the little ones, which made the day even more special. A particularly touching moment came when one child proudly brought in her mum’s army medic medals to share with everyone.

A huge thank you to this lovely little one and her family for allowing us to share in those incredible achievements, and to all the children and staff at Little Bear Nursery for helping to make the day so meaningful.     

At the very heart of community engagement, Sharon Osborne, Registered Manager of Ashlar House, shone with pride as she attended the inaugural Epping Forest Chamber of Commerce Business Awards 2025. This year held special meaning for Ashlar House, as teams from several divisions came together to attend the event standing in unity, representing the home’s values, and celebrating local achievement.

Ashlar House was also honoured to be one of the event’s sponsors, a role made even more meaningful by the way Sharon’s staff offered their skills, dedication, and support throughout the evening. Their presence and teamwork reflected the spirit of care and collaboration they demonstrate every day.

With grace and sincerity, Sharon took to the stage to present an award, celebrating both the winner and one of the seven remarkable runners-up whose accomplishments reflect the vibrant strength of the Epping community.

The evening grew even more special as Sharon proudly witnessed Rita Green, Committee Member and Ambassador of the Chamber receive the award for Outstanding Contribution to the Epping Forest Chamber of Commerce. It was a moment filled with shared admiration and heartfelt appreciation.

Once again, residents enjoyed this local trip to see the fireworks at Horley Recreation Ground. 

Horley Lions always make sure we get the perfect spot so we can park with a lovely hot chocolate and enjoy the wonderful display.    

Soren attended his first home game with his season ticket for the 25/26 season, and it was a big one. 

As Crystal Palace took on their rivals Brighton and Hove FC, it was the event he had been waiting for returning to his old stomping ground for Eagles vs Seagulls.   

We hosted our very own Halloween Trick or Treat Party this year, inspired by Helen and her infamous Halloween Parties. 

Helen helped us to plan and run the event, and we invited children from the local community to enjoy some trick or treating with our residents, as well as a disco and buffet for all to enjoy.   

This Year for Remembrance Day, residents from both the Memory Lane unit and the nursing unit embarked on a trip to Preston town centre in which they were able to show their respect. This brings back a lot of memories for a lot of our residents. 

They were able to join in with the band which was playing at the time of arrival and laid a Poppy wreath in order to show their respect. We were all privileged enough to bump into the mayorress and mayor of Preston, who sat and spoke to our residents about old times and new. The residents very much enjoyed this and were able to feel fulfilment from this trip.