Celebrating life at Barchester

What a fantastic sport our General Manager Claudia was. Not only was she an Elf all day and going about her everyday duties, but she also took part in Challenge Elf, making toys, guessing the festive food item, solving riddles and a scavenger hunt running all over the building!
Our residents had such a giggle with her they even threw snowballs at her when she was singing!
Claudia was raising money for the Barchester Charitable Foundation- a charity that helps elderly people in the community battle isolation and loneliness. Thank you Claudia for all you do for our residents, staff and Barchester!

Christmas Day at Middletown Grange Care Home was filled with laughter, smiles, and festive cheer as residents enjoyed a very special visit from Santa and his helper, Elf Holly.

Santa spent time with residents delivering presents, sharing jokes, and spreading Christmas magic throughout the home. The visit created a lively and joyful atmosphere, with plenty of smiles, warm conversations, and memorable moments shared together.

Celebrations like this are an important part of life at Middletown Grange, helping residents feel connected, valued, and included during significant occasions. The visit brought a wonderful sense of togetherness and reminded everyone that the magic of Christmas can be enjoyed at any age.

The day was a heart-warming celebration of community, kindness, and the true spirit of Christmas, enjoyed by residents, staff, and visitors alike.

Residents and friends at Middletown Grange Care Home recently enjoyed a relaxing and creative Christmas wreath-making workshop, getting well and truly into the festive spirit.

During the afternoon, residents chose their own greenery and decorations, carefully assembling wreaths while chatting and sharing ideas. The hands-on activity encouraged creativity and concentration, while also providing a lovely opportunity for social interaction and seasonal conversation.

Creative activities like wreath making are an important part of life at Middletown Grange, supporting wellbeing by encouraging self-expression, engagement, and a sense of achievement. The workshop created a calm and cheerful atmosphere, with residents taking pride in their finished decorations.

The session was a wonderful way to celebrate the lead-up to Christmas, and residents thoroughly enjoyed taking part in this festive tradition.  

Residents from Middletown Grange Care Home recently enjoyed a special festive outing, joining their families for a delicious Christmas lunch at the local village pub, The Lamb & Flag in Hailey.

The afternoon provided a relaxed and welcoming setting for residents to enjoy good food, familiar surroundings, and valuable time with loved ones ahead of the Christmas celebrations. Conversations flowed easily around the tables, with plenty of laughter and shared moments making the occasion particularly meaningful.

Outings like these play an important role in supporting residents’ wellbeing, helping them stay connected with their local community while enjoying experiences that feel familiar and enjoyable. Sharing a traditional pub lunch together created a lovely sense of normality and celebration during the festive season.

The team at Middletown Grange would like to thank The Lamb & Flag for their warm hospitality and everyone who helped make the day such a memorable and enjoyable experience for residents and their families.

Residents recently enjoyed a fascinating virtual trip to Norway, presented by our very own Jan. The lounge was transformed into a wintery, cosy setting that helped bring the experience to life, making everyone feel as though they were travelling together. 

Jan’s engaging presentation took us through beautiful landscapes and cultural highlights, sparking curiosity and conversation among the group. Many residents were keen to share their own travel memories and ask questions throughout the journey, creating a lovely atmosphere of shared discovery. 

It was a truly enjoyable session that blended comfort, learning, and community spirit. Thank you to Jan for taking us on this special virtual adventure — a delightful way to spend time together and make new memories at Fountains.  

Our residents and their families enjoyed a wonderful New Year’s Eve celebration filled with music, laughter, and togetherness.

The home was beautifully decorated, creating a festive atmosphere for the afternoon. Everyone enjoyed lovely food and a celebratory glass of Prosecco while spending quality time with loved ones.

We were delighted to welcome live entertainer Ian, whose performance made the afternoon truly special. His singing encouraged residents and families to dance, sing along, and share happy memories together.
It was a joyful and memorable way to welcome the New Year, and a celebration that brought smiles to everyone involved.        

Christmas Day arrived wrapped in warmth and gentle excitement at our care home. From the early morning, the building was filled with the comforting aromas of freshly baked treats and a traditional festive lunch being lovingly prepared. Tinsel sparkled, the Christmas tree twinkled, and familiar carols drifted through the halls, bringing smiles and a few happy sing-alongs along the way.

Residents gathered to enjoy a delicious Christmas meal, complete with all the seasonal favourites, shared laughter, and plenty of cheerful conversation. Thoughtfully chosen gifts were exchanged, each one opening the door to surprise, gratitude, and heartfelt joy. It was a pleasure to see faces light up as memories were shared—stories of Christmases past, family traditions, and moments that have shaped a lifetime.

The day was not about rushing, but about togetherness. Staff and residents spent time chatting, reminiscing, and simply enjoying each other’s company. There was warmth in every corner, kindness in every interaction, and a true sense of home.

As the day drew to a close, Christmas Day left behind more than decorations and wrapping paper—it left beautiful memories, shared smiles, and the gentle reminder that the greatest gift of all is being together.   

We have had a fun filled and busy morning here, making our very special homemade, chocolate chip cookies.

The residents love getting involved and working as a team together. It’s safe to say the baking went down a great and residents thoroughly enjoyed indulging in their homemade bakes.      

Kick-starting the year off with a fabulous exercise class. We love our sessions with Guiseley Community group at Cookridge Court, who visit us weekly and host a fabulous exercise class for everyone to take part in. 

Exercise in our elderly generation, helps improve physical health by building muscle strength and increases mental wellbeing, along with being sociable and fun. Everyone is welcome to come along and take part.