Celebrating life at Barchester

We took a ladies trip out to one of our favourite garden centres otter nurseries, we had a lovely time browsing all of the beautiful flowers and plants before picking some up ready to plant with our gardening club.. and of-course we also treated ourselves to some tea and cake before heading home! 

Highfield Care Home, in Tadcaster have hosted a group of children from Barkston Ash Nursery who completed their ‘Toddlethon’ at Highfield Care Home. We welcomed the group of Mums and their toddlers who live locally as well as the lovely nursery team.

The group of mums, toddlers, residents and staff enjoyed spending time in each other’s company, the children played on their bouncy hoppers, done some excellent hula hooping & played catch with the residents.

The catering team at the care home provided a selection of biscuits and juice for the children and the grown-ups had a selection of hot drinks to choose from.

General Manager, Rebekka Richardson of Highfield Care Home, said: “The group of children were warmly welcomed into the home and played beautifully, the residents at our home had a lot of fun in the morning, and loved to watch them enjoying themselves. If anyone ever wants to stop in for a lovely morning or afternoon with your young ones, or just for a cuppa and a break, we’d love to have you join us.”

As part of Dog Appreciation Month, we celebrated in the best way and welcomed Pause with Paws, who brought along their wonderful dogs, who were adorable Pomeranian’s and chihuahua’s. Our residents absolutely loved spending time with them, giving them treats, playing games with them and, of course, lots of cuddles, as the dogs happily curled up on their laps.

This visit brought so much joy, laughter and comfort to everyone. Animal interaction like this can have such a positive impact – helping to reduce stress, spark conversation and create meaningful moments of connection.     

We had a very special couple of visitors to Bluebell Park in April. Two adorable Lambs, 2-week old Fifi and 3-week-old Tiny Tim, who completely stole the show. Our residents were delighted to meet and cuddle them, with so many smiles, laughter and lovely moments that were shared throughout the visit. 

The 2 adorable lambs also visited our residents in their bedrooms, which surprised them and made their day. It was a truly special morning that brought joy, happiness and a little bit of the countryside to our home.     

In April, our residents made some beautiful and unique flower displays during a flower arranging activity. Instead of using vases, residents used China Cups and Saucers. We added some oasis to the bottom of each cup and then residents put in their chosen flowers. This made the experience a little bit different, and it makes the flowers last longer.  

This flower arranging activity sparked reminiscing conversations about flower arranging at home and what flowers everyone had in their gardens and, of course, what our favourite flowers are.                    

We had a wonderful time when pupils from Shotton Hall Academy Drama cast in Peterlee performed the musical Annie here at Hawthorns. Residents, families, visitors and staff all really enjoyed the performance. 

We were all singing along and making memories. It was lovely to see smiles on residents' faces.           

At Hawthorns, we supported John’s family and hosted his 80th Birthday Party. The Head Chef was delighted to provide a buffet and the activities team helped arrange decorations. Family and friends all enjoyed the day celebrating with John and singing at karaoke.  

John said, “It was the best day he has had in a long time”.              

Here at Hawthorns, we encourage active engagement in continuing to live a full and active life. Our resident, Bobby, has always kept birds and, with the help of John, Head of Maintenance and the activities team, we have helped fulfil his wish of having a small Aviary. 
Bobby ordered a handmade sign naming his aviary Canary Wharf. Bobby tends to his birds daily, which gives him a great sense of purpose, which he loves, as do other residents who enjoy visiting the garden to bird watch. 

The Aviary has had a huge impact on Bobby, giving him new confidence. He had recently ordered himself a cowboy jacket after seeing an entertainer at home wearing one. Bobby is thrilled with his new look, saying ‘I feel fantastic’.      

What a beautiful sunny day to enjoy our sensory garden, which is open and ready for everyone to relax and unwind. Hats and shades are available, so you can stay cool while making the most of the sunshine.

We’re delighted to be joined by Tim Arthur, who’s creating a lovely atmosphere with his fabulous guitar playing fresh air, great music, and good company!