Celebrating life at Barchester

The Cedars Care Home had a very special group of visitors this weekend. The children from Chestnut Squirrel Drey Bourne Scout Group dropped in and delivered an enormous hamper of goodies for the residents. 

Residents Doreen and Jean both said, “what a kind and generous thing to do.” The residents agreed that they could use the gifts when they help host and enjoy the Vintage “Pop-up” Tea Room for our Open Day on the 24th October. All the residents at the Cedars say a hearty thanks to the Chestnut Squirrels and come and see us again soon.        

Good old-fashioned fun and mayhem ensued as the residents of The Cedars Care Home had a game of "What’s In The Box", laughter-filled the room as the residents let their imaginations run wild with objects, from cotton wool to a banana... 

“It’s harder than you think!” cried resident Doreen Robinson, “I haven’t laughed like that in a long time!”           

The Cedars hosted the celebration of resident Margaret Barber and her husband Peter’s 60th Diamond Wedding Anniversary. All the residents were invited and corks were popped as everyone sang and danced the afternoon away with Alan Jackson - Vintage Singer - over bubbles and a homemade cake by Head chef Hemante. They shared wedding videos, photos and the afternoon had a magical atmosphere as they shared stories of how they met and were married in the Abbey next door.     

Taking control of our finances starts with the right information and support. Queens Court was delighted to welcome Mrs Mehmoona and Mr John from Barclays Wimbledon for an engaging community seminar on financial wellbeing, budgeting and saving plans. The session brought together members of our team and the local community, offering practical guidance on managing money, planning for the future and building positive saving habits. 

Attendees also had the opportunity to ask questions and share ideas in a friendly, supportive environment. Our sincere thanks go to Mrs Mehmoona Khan and Mr John Williams for sharing their knowledge and expertise, as well as to Mr Andrew Green, Barclays Wimbledon Manager, for attending and supporting this valuable initiative. Events like this help strengthen our community by encouraging open conversations, sharing useful knowledge and supporting one another. At Queens Court, we remain committed to creating opportunities that promote confidence, connection and financial wellbeing for everyone.

Residents at Queens Court enjoyed an engaging session with the Happi Table, taking part in interactive games designed to encourage participation, mental stimulation and social interaction. The gentlemen explored the digital activities, tested their skills and enjoyed some friendly competition.   

The session created opportunities for residents to share the experience, engage with technology and spend enjoyable time together. The Happi Table offers a range of interactive activities that can support cognitive engagement and provide entertainment tailored to residents’ interests and abilities. At Queens Court, the team continues to introduce enjoyable and meaningful activities that promote wellbeing, encourage social connections and enhance residents’ daily.

Queens Court Wimbledon hosted a successful Macmillan Coffee Morning, bringing together residents, families, staff and visitors to raise funds for Macmillan Cancer Support. The morning also included a special online appearance by Anne Easter Smith, sister of the late Gillian Philip, a much-missed former resident known for her pioneering work in charity fundraising. Anne shared memories of Gillian and spoke about the support and Macmillan funding received at Queens Court. Guests enjoyed homemade cakes, tea and coffee, alongside a raffle that added to the occasion. 

The raffle winner was pictured with Home Manager Shaaron Rawana Caratella, celebrating her prize.The event highlighted the importance of community support and fundraising for Macmillan Cancer Support, which provides vital assistance to people affected by cancer.  

Henry enjoyed extra treats and cuddles from the residents today on his 11th birthday!  

The idea that residents at Tyspane Care Home just stay along in their rooms is simply not true. At Tyspane Care Home, everyone is included to take part in day-to-day life. Residents eat together in the dining rooms, spend time baking in the resident’s kitchen and join in on activities on a daily basis. However, for some residents who are cared for in rooms to make this happen for them, we take the entertainment to them, which is truly an amazing experience to watch.

Thank you to everyone who supports our residents' life enrichment. You're all simply the best.  

Tyspane Care Home understands that at an older age, it starts to matter even more that residents remain active and have a good quality of life. None is as valuable as engaging in hobbies; they’re one of the best ways to keep residents mentally alert, physically fit, and emotionally satisfied. Engaging in hobbies and interests offers opportunities for residents and families to interact while pursuing their interests.    

For several of our residents, collecting antiquities is a passion, especially military memorabilia and local collectables. With this is mind activity, staff visited Barnstaple today with residents to peruse the antique shops for lots of wonderful treasures to bring back to Tyspane Care Home to share with other residents.

A great day was had by all full of fun and history.