Celebrating life at Barchester

Today, we hosted our "Increasing Hydration" event specifically tailored for those living with dementia, and it was a great success!

Our incredible Head Chef, John Fesel, created a spectacular trolley of tasty treats to help everyone beat the summer heat. Residents sampled Blue & Pink lemonade Tangerine jellies & Lemonade ice lolly shots Fresh melon variety & fruit skewers Refreshing smoothies  Icesupp yoghurts (frozen treats with a beautiful backstory of a family helping their own loved one stay hydrated!) Nutrient-rich Haskapa berry powder drinks & Omega-3 vanilla fudge pouches!

Our Memory Lane community lounge was buzzing with residents enjoying the sampling session together. For those unable to make it to the lounge, our Customer Relationship Manager, Louise Ramage, brought the trolley straight to their bedsides so no one missed out on these vital, delicious fluids.

We didn't forget our hard-working team and wonderful guests either! Visitors and staff all enjoyed a refreshing drink and snack to stay cool and hydrated.

A huge thank you to Chef John, Louise, and everyone who made today so special and refreshing!

We had a fantastic time celebrating World Chocolate Day yesterday! Our residents and staff were treated to a special chocolate trolley filled with treats.

From sticky Chocolate Eclairs to classic Freddos, Curly Wurlys, KitKats, and Twirls, there was something for everyone. We even took the trolley out into the garden so everyone could enjoy a sweet treat in the fresh air.

Big smiles and full hearts all round!

Everyone enjoyed a fun-filled afternoon creating their own fresh fruit ice creams and refreshing fruit lollies.

With support from Activities Coordinator Champa, everyone prepared a selection of delicious frozen treats using fresh fruit before gathering together to enjoy tasting their homemade creations. The activity was filled with laughter and plenty of smiles, with the fruity flavours proving a real hit.

Activities like these are a wonderful way to encourage creativity, bring people together and make the most of the summer, whilst increasing hydration.

Our residents enjoyed another wonderful visit to Basing Hill Community Garden, where they spent time watering, weeding and caring for the vegetables.

One of the highlights of the day was picking and tasting fresh peas straight from the plants – a real treat after helping them grow.

These regular visits are a fantastic way to stay active, enjoy the outdoors and connect with the local community, while creating meaningful moments and lasting friendships.

Residents at Ottley House recently enjoyed a wonderful picnic day, making the most of the beautiful sunny weather. Everyone gathered outdoors to relax, socialise, and enjoy refreshments in the fresh air. The warm sunshine provided the perfect setting for conversation, laughter, and spending quality time together.       

Residents appreciated the opportunity to get outside, enjoy nature, and share a fun and relaxing afternoon with friends. Days like these are a great way to promote wellbeing, create happy memories, and bring our community together while taking advantage of the good weather.

Life at Ottley House is filled with special moments, and recently we celebrated a truly remarkable milestone as one of our residents turned 100 years old. Friends, family, residents, and staff came together to mark this wonderful occasion with joy and laughter.        

The celebration included birthday wishes, refreshments, live entertainment and plenty of happy memories shared throughout the day. It was a privilege to honour such an incredible achievement and reflect on a century of experiences and stories. The event brought everyone together and created a warm, memorable atmosphere that will be cherished by all.

Life at Ottley House is always full of community spirit, and this was on display as residents stayed up late to watch England’s World Cup opening match. The lounge was filled with excitement as residents gathered together to support the team. Residents cheered, celebrated every chance, and shared in the thrill of the game.        

Residents who chose to remain in their rooms watched the match from their bedrooms full of national pride and plenty of conversation and laughter throughout the evening. The world cup tournament brings people together, creates special memories and strengthens friendships while enjoying the excitement of world-class football.