Celebrating life at Barchester

Resident’s decided that this month’s themed tea party should centre around Alice in Wonderland, so that’s what we did. The room was decorated in the theme, staff and residents joined the fun by dressing up in costumes and wearing our mad hats. 

Our queen of hearts brushed up on her science skills and showed the residents some illusion tricks. We played guess how many jelly babies in the jar, while we enjoyed some bubbles or a cup of tea if preferred, along with lots of delicious cakes and sandwiches. We were delighted to welcome in so many family members to join us and share in the magical day, spending quality time together.   

Residents and nursery children have come together through a gardening club, creating a special bond across generations. There is something especially joyful about watching little hands and experienced hands work side by side in the soil, planting seeds, watering plants, and caring for what will grow next. Laughter and curiosity fill the garden as gentle guidance is shared between the age groups. 

Together, they have been planting flowers for our beautiful garden for everyone to enjoy. The children ask endless questions, with the residents answering them patiently.

The emotional impact of the club reaches far beyond the garden beds. The children bring energy and wonder, while the residents offer wisdom, patience, and a steady sense of care. Both groups benefit in different ways: the children learn about nature, responsibility, and respect for elders, while residents feel valued, purposeful, and uplifted by the young company. The gardening club has become more than just an activity. It is a place where friendships bloom alongside the plants, where generations connect through shared purpose, 

A fascinating, educational afternoon today as we welcomed the brilliant Sarah Davies from Managing Memory – Information & Education Service - IES to Hunters for the first time to talk about dementia awareness.

Sarah was very knowledgeable and provided an informative session to both residents and staff about the different types of dementia and the wide range of symptoms. As well as an insight into how somebody with dementia might be feeling and behaving.

Residents were able to ask any questions or queries they had, and we all came away with a much better understanding of the disease.

A lovely literary-filled morning as we welcomed local novelists, Elizabeth White and Malcom Brooks to Hunters for the first time.
Elizabeth has written a book based on her local knowledge of the area and Malcom has written murder mystery books inspired by things that have happened to him.

Thank you both for giving us a fascinating insight into what inspires you and your own process of writing and getting your books published.      

One of our favourite places to visit, Dragonfly Café at Lower Moor, is perfect for relaxing on a sunny day. It's always popular with our residents, and you can see why. Beautiful scenery, a host of wildlife as well as fantastic, friendly staff serving up delicious food and drink.

So much fun watching the dragonflies chase each other, the beautiful swan family and even the elusive heron made an appearance.
A lovely afternoon spent with friends and definitely not our last visit to this special place.

A fantastic session last week as we were given some helpful tips and advice from the brilliant Charlotte Berry, a local Physiotherapist who is a good friend of many of us here.

Charlotte made everyone feel safe and gave lots of great ideas for keeping our residents as active as possible even whilst watching TV in their rooms. A great afternoon and a fun way to empower our residents to keep moving.    

A fantastic afternoon yesterday as we were joined by the brilliant Shelley from Mini Concerts and her tribute to The Beatles.

Shelley had us singing and dancing along to all the hits from the Fab Four, whilst telling us the stories of how the band and the music came together.

Such a fun afternoon that got us all smiling and reminiscing.      

The residents and staff at Ashlar House are getting ready for a big game between Ghana and England!

The flags are up, the face paint is on, and the match-day props are ready. Everyone is looking forward to cheering on the Three Lions together and enjoying a fantastic evening of football.

COME ON ENGLAND!