Celebrating life at Barchester

Resident & Staff were treated to a truly unique experience as they hosted local Guide Dogs and their handlers at the home for an educational but fun afternoon.

The Guide Dogs and their dedicated volunteer handlers not only provided pure joy for the residents, they also offered an incredibly informative session detailing exactly what it takes and costs to raise a Guide Dog. Residents were fascinated to learn the total cost and investment to raise a little puppy in to life changing company for someone reaches well over the £50,000 mark. Residents also learnt that not all the dogs pass the test, and that all the costs are almost entirely funded via charitable donations.

Tina, Activities Co-ordinator said, “The residents had a truly wonderful time, we all learnt so much. A wonderful stall was also set up with many items for sale with all proceeds going to the guide dog association, and it was lovely to see friends and family join the afternoon event. A truly memorable afternoon was had by all.”

Larisa Bledea, General Manager at Elm Bank said: “This was a very enjoyable activity and it was also a very informative activity that everyone enjoyed. We truly like to host a variety of activities and events for all our residents. The dogs were so well behaved and for many residents this was a trip down memory lane reminiscing and sharing stories of when they also had dogs and pets

We were delighted in welcoming the Seventh-day Adventist Church choir to their home for the afternoon and they filled the air with love.

We opened our doors to welcome adults and children from the congregation visited who visited the residents, providing a truly uplifting afternoon of songs and spiritual fellowship. The choirs’ beautiful voices brought smiles to every face, and the residents thoroughly enjoyed the heartfelt performance. The children in particular were a delight, their sweet voices adding a special touch to the event. Afterward, the children personally handed out beautiful, hand written cards to each resident. The cards made with care and creativity, served as a tangible reminder of the day’s warmth.

Tina, Activities Co-ordinator said, “The visit was a powerful reminder and an example of the importance of faith and spiritual activities within a care home setting. These moments of connection and joy are invaluable, providing not just entertainment but a deeper sense of peace and community. The Seventh-day Adventist Church’s generosity and compassion created a day that will be remembered by both residents and staff.”

General Manager Larisa Bledea said: "It was lovely to have the choir come and pay a visit to us, giving up their afternoon to sing and spread joy to all. The residents were so touched by the lovely messages within the cards that some even cried with happiness. It is so important here at the home that we welcome faith for all and this afternoon was a perfect moment of just that.”

It was a sip-sip hooray kind of day for the Blossom Trail Community this week, as the residents enjoyed a sensory and colourful afternoon creating their very own Mocktails.

It was certainly a fun and hydrating afternoon for the residents as they experimented with different juices and fruit garnish. The residents also took great pride in decorating their final creations with paper umbrellas and decorative paper fruits. The afternoon was filled with music as the home welcomed Gavin a local singer in to perform some old-time favourite hits, which certainly had all singing and dancing along in the comfort of their chairs.

Activities Co-ordinator, Tina said: “It was really lovely to have this wonderful morning creating Mocktails with our Blossom Trail Community, the activity really got everyone together and it was a great tactile experience of handling the ingredients and socialising with one another. The live entertainment at the end of the day was a perfect way to celebrate.”

General Manager, Larisa Bledea, said: “What a lovely hydrating afternoon for our residents, activities like these are so meaningful, it is not always about the big events and activities. Here at the home, we offer a variety of activities that allow choice for all.”