Celebrating life at Barchester

This week was International Housekeepers Week and we took the time to celebrate our own wonderful Housekeeping team. They all work tirelessly to keep our home clean and bright from behind the scenes in the laundry to out on the floor. Our General Manager, Ciprian, led the celebrations, presenting the team with chocolates, cake and a glass of fizz for everyone to enjoy. There were fun games and lots of laughter. 

Thank you to our amazing Housekeeping team, you really are the best!

Staff, residents and their loved ones dressed in their best cowboy attire and rounded up for a barrel of laughs with one another at Station Court’s country and western themed day.

The fun began rootin’ n tootin’ and singing n dancing along to everyone’s favourite country hits with a special tribute to the late Dolly Parton thanks to the fabulous entertainer Chris Gilly performing live.

Followed by an afternoon of rodeo races, horseshoe games and lasso competitions and an evening with everyone’s favourite western star, John Wayne on the big screen! Yeehaw!    

Wildlife spotting on a trip to one of our favourite destinations this week.

We made the most of the last of the summer sun and headed to Dragonfly Café at Lower Moor, to relax, enjoy the stunning scenery and share stories. Always a fantastic time here and, as one of our residents said, “There is just something magical about this place, it’s simply wonderful.” 

A wonderful afternoon of great music as we welcomed back Shelley from the Mini Concerts team with her tribute to The Carpenters. 
Shelley had us all singing along with songs that are truly classic and well known by everyone.

Lots of fun with friends and family, with great music bringing smiles.    

We took a wonderful trip down memory lane as our staff brought in their own photo albums to share with our residents and residents shared their photo albums with staff.

Together, we turned the pages and shared stories of weddings, family celebrations, holidays, special moments, beloved pets and precious memories.

It was lovely to see residents and staff connecting through the memories captured in photographs — sharing laughter, stories and sometimes a few emotional moments too.

Our photo albums may hold pictures from the past, but today they help create new memories together. What a beautiful afternoon of sharing, reminiscing and getting to know each other a little better.     

As the Great North Run passes just up the road from Harton Grange we decided to make some signs and head up there to cheer on all the runners who took part. 

We made 3 signs and Jean loved holding the sign up as she watch the runners go past her. It was a lovely morning and we really enjoyed our time out.      

Dot, Dorothy and Sandra went along to Ministeracre Retreat. 

We visited the church before enjoying a picnic and then heading to a local coffee shop for a cuppa while the rain rolled in. We finished the day with a drive through Durham, where Dorothy used to live during her teacher training. We all had a wonderful day filled with faith, fun and hot drinks.   

In September, we were delighted to welcome the incredibly talented Ruby to Bluebell Park for an Abba-themed performance. Residents, relatives and staff gathered together to enjoy an afternoon of singing, dancing and fun as Ruby performed some of Abba’s greatest hits. 

Ruby was brilliant and everyone enjoyed listening to her singing and joining in on the fun.

In September, some of our residents enjoyed a lovely trip to Bretby Garden Centre. Residents began their visit looking around the pet shop, where there was plenty to see. Residents spotted some beautiful birds, rabbits, guinea pigs, rats, hamsters, reptiles and lots of different fish. After having a good look around, the residents moved on to look around at all the stunning plants and flowers that they had to offer, before stopping for a delicious lunch in the café for a well-deserved cuppa.

The residents finished the visit by looking at the lovely autumn displays and the seasonal items and gifts. It was a fantastic day for all who went.