Activities at Lawton Rise Care Home
Activities are the cornerstone of a wholesome home experience and our Activities Coordinators are always putting their creative minds to the test by organising new and exciting social events for residents to partake in. Of course, we take into account the likes and dislikes of those we support, so if someone doesn’t feel like trying something new, there will always be something on offer to reflect their personal interests. For the people who may just prefer some peace and quiet instead, we also offer one-to-one time that can be enjoyed with a nice cup of coffee or just a simple chat – whatever they desire.
Kate Franks
Hi, my name is Kate Franks and I have returned to Lawton Rise August 2023 to work as an Activities Coordinator. I started my career working as a Legal Secretary in the Conveyancing department before leaving to commence employment with the Health Authority as a Medical Secretary.
After having my two children I retrained to work as a Teaching Assistant in a Primary School for ten years and studied for a Higher Level Teaching Assistance qualification enabling to progress my career.
Due to illness within my family I needed to focus on a role closer to home but I am delighted to be able to return to the home and it feels like I have never been away. The staff and residents are so welcoming and helpful and I am really pleased that I have returned.
Read our brochure 'Life-enriching activities' for more information about life in our care homes.
Read our brochure
Activities and Events Partnerships
As part of our bespoke life-enrichment programmes, we host a number of live virtual events in the home on a regular basis through a number of partnerships with places of interest and world class performance companies
Life at Lawton Rise Care Home
Dartmoor Zoo
We were able to virtually dive into the impressive wildlife of Dartmoor Zoo.
We explored its grounds and learnt about the unique history of the park from the zoo’s educational team. The culmination of the tour was the live tiger training demonstration, which was wonderful to see and enjoyed by all.
Our residents were delighted to see amazing photos and short videos of the animals and take a peek inside their home.
Iceland's Puffin Rescue Centre
We took a wonderful virtual trip to Iceland’s Puffin Rescue Centre at the Beluga Whale Sanctuary.
We were able to virtually meet some of the rescued Atlantic Puffins and to learn interesting facts about their care and unique lives. We took a peek into their lives in the wild, the Puffling rescue program in the Westman Islands, and how SEA LIFE Trust Beluga Whale Sanctuary’s team takes care of these charismatic little birds each day.
It was a very exciting experience, enjoyed by all.
Beach Party
Residents made the most of the weather as a heat wave hit Stoke on Trent and people across the region enjoy the warmest weather of the year so far.
A gazebo was put up above the outdoor sitting area for those who enjoy a spot of al fresco dining, and sun hats and high factor sun cream are in abundance. The home has a wonderful garden so Lawton Rise decided to throw a beach themed party with sand, paddling pools, hula girl fancy dress! The “by the seaside fish and chips” was washed down with some lager shandy and an ice lolly! As residents and staff danced to The Beatles, the warm weather brought with it memories of summers gone by, leading residents to reminisce about favourite summer holidays.
Blenheim Palace WW2 virtual talk
Ahead of Armed Forces Day, we were transported back in time for a World War II themed talk and tour of Blenheim Palace, hosted by Antonia Keaney, the Palace’s social historian and author.
Entitled ‘Evacuees and Espionage,’ Antonia’s wartime themed talk focused on how the Marlborough family, estate staff and the Palace itself played a full and energetic part in the war effort.
The talk and tour told the story of how the Palace prepared for the worst, survived the onslaught of 400 boys being evacuated to Blenheim and kept the secrets of MI5.
It was a lovely experience, enjoyed by all.
Pet therapy
Residents enjoyed a visit from Poppy the Cocker Spaniel as she trotted round the home giving out plenty of cuddles!
Frankie, Activities Coordinator and owner of Poppy, said “A lot of our residents had previously kept pets so it’s lovely to see how much comfort Pop gave the residents. Their faces lit up when they saw her, but I’m not sure who was happier to receive the cuddles!”
Residents enjoy tour of Hereford Cathedral
We had a lovely time joining the team from Hereford Cathedral for an exciting virtual session.
We enjoyed a glimpse of this spectacular building and its treasures in a series of short pre-recorded videos. From the stunning gardens which lead down to the River Wye, to the Mappa Mundi and Chained Library.
It was wonderful to learn more about the history and beauty of Hereford Cathedral.
