Celebrating life at Barchester

Our residents thoroughly enjoyed a fantastic performance from the very talented Debbie Le Vene today. The room was filled with smiles, singing, clapping, and plenty of toe-tapping as everyone joined in with some favourite classics.

Music has a wonderful way of bringing people together, and it was lovely to see so many residents reminiscing, dancing, and enjoying the entertainment.

A big thank you to our wonderful staff and singer Debbie for making the afternoon so special. We can't wait to welcome Debbie back again soon.             

Residents at Highview House were delighted to welcome new friends to the home as they watched a production of "Nessie!"  During the show, residents sang along with a medley of well-known Scottish pop songs, interacted with the cast and afterwards posed for photos.    

“Nessie!” was performed for residents by Shoogalie Road productions, one of a number of touring production companies who visit the home throughout the year. Performances are specially tailored for care homes, and include high levels of interaction and resident involvement. Particularly popular are our annual summer and winter pantomimes, with other performances throughout the year.    

What a fun morning at Matrix Superbowl Snooker and Pool Centre in Skipton! 

One of our residents who is over 90 has never been 10 pin bowling, so we thought let’s introduce him and see what he thinks! Well, he absolutely loved it, everyone had so much fun and it really was a big competition seeing who would win! 

At the end of the game everyone was a winner but our residents decided it was a warm up and next time we go, it will be a big competition!            

On Tuesday, our residents Ann, Barbara, and Audrey George had a wonderful time playing their favourite games with a twist. Our volunteers, Sally & Carl, brought in a selection of large-scale classic boards such as Connect 4 & Dominoes.

Here’s a quote from volunteer Sally about the day’s fun:

'Barbara arrived, joined Ann and Audrey to play dominoes. Ann had never played before. They were very competitive!! Audrey asked if this was the game they played in pubs!! Audrey told Barbara to play Connect 4 with her. This game was very serious, neither willing to end the game when Barbara made the first 4, so they continued until they had used all the pieces! There was lots of conversation and laughter. We finished the afternoon with tea and cake.'      

Congratulations Sharon, on this extraordinary milestone; fifteen years long service award at Tyspane Care Home. 

Sharon is a pillar of organisation, a mentor to many, and a dear friend to staff and residents. Her story is one of commitment, excellence and heart.           

This afternoon, our local Wallingford WI visited Waterside Court for a Scrumptious Cream Tea with our residents. 

There was plenty of chatter throughout the afternoon, and our residents thoroughly enjoyed spending time with the ladies from the WWI. Before indulging in delicious scones served with clotted cream and jam, our visitors shared information about the Women's Institute and the important role it plays in bringing people together through friendship, learning, and community involvement. This afternoon's gathering was a wonderful reflection of those values.    

The visit was enjoyed by everyone, and we are pleased that the Wallingford WI will be returning to Waterside Court on a regular basis. Our residents are already looking forward to welcoming them back, and we will be organising a variety of activities for everyone to enjoy together in the future.

A big thank you to the Wallingford WI for spending the afternoon with us and helping to create such a warm and enjoyable occasion.

We’re excited to share that Barchester Healthcare has been named Residential Elderly Care Provider of the Year in the Large Group category and our CEO, Dr Pete Calveley, won the Outstanding Contribution Award for his exemplary leadership at this year’s Health Investor Awards.  
The Health Investor Awards recognise achievement and celebrate the very best in health and social care. The Outstanding Contribution award is judged by an independent panel of industry experts who look across the entire health and social care sector for an individual who has excelled in their field. 

The sun is shining, and it is a hot one! 

The residents said they’d love a BBQ today, and chef was more than happy to oblige. We decided to eat indoors and make the most of the air conditioning while enjoying all the delicious food and drinks on offer. 

To round off the afternoon, we had the pleasure of being entertained by the brilliant Steve Jay, who treated us to a catalogue of greatest hits. 

A fantastic day enjoyed by all!

We’ve been enjoying some fun and informative hydration and nutrition sessions to support residents’ wellbeing during the exceptionally warm weather. Led by our Head Chef, Simon, these activities have combined expert advice with delicious refreshments, helping residents learn more about the importance of staying hydrated.

Residents took part in a hydration quiz, sampled freshly made fruit smoothies and enjoyed colourful fruit platters and fruit kebabs packed with water-rich ingredients. Naturally flavoured waters infused with orange, cucumber and lemon were also available, with advice about why these are healthy alternatives to sugary drinks.

The sessions were a great success, with residents praising the tasty refreshments and enjoying the opportunity to learn practical tips for staying healthy throughout the summer. The event reflects our ongoing commitment to promoting health, wellbeing and enjoyment for all residents.