Meet our Activities Coordinator, Claire Garrod

Hello, my name is Claire and I am the Activities Co-ordinator here at Ritson Lodge.

I have been working with the care industry since 2015 and as an Activities Co-ordinator since 2017. I love being an activities co-ordinator as it allows me to bring joy into the residents day, build relationships with them and ultimately try to make them smile!! Before starting work I completed a degree in Dance and Drama so I try to include my knowledge of this in my activities. I am also particularly passionate about activities for those living with dementia.

Activities at our home

Our home is always full of life, and we can thank our wonderful Activities Coordinators for this. Dedication to creating a unique and interesting activities programme is what sets us apart from other homes. We always take into consideration that some people would prefer to pursue their own interests, which is why our team strive to incorporative activities that cater to a wide range of tastes and hobbies. Our trips out are always fun and exciting as well, and residents are guaranteed to return with stories to tell their loved ones!

Life at Ritson Lodge Care Home

Maintenance Champion

Paul Harte was crowned as the national winner in the Maintenance Champion category at the 2020 Barchester Care Awards, held virtually on 8th October.

The awards celebrate staff and volunteers who go the extra mile for the benefit of residents and patients living in Barchester care homes and independent hospitals.

More than 2,800 nominations were received from homes, residents, staff and relatives across the UK this year, which is nearly 1000 more than was received last year. Nominations were sent in by Barchester staff, but many more were also from residents and their families who have praised the fantastic care provided to their loved ones.

All entries have been of a very high standard, and Paul is thrilled to have been declared as the national winner!

Last Night of the Proms

Residents enjoyed a special viewing on the last night of the proms, complete with flag waving and strawberries and prosecco. 'God Save Our Queen' was sung in full voice with residents standing for the song.

Virtual Concert

We celebrated a resident's birthday with a virtual Mozart concert. Residents really enjoyed the cultural afternoon with cheese, wine and birthday cake.

Divisional Maintenance Champion

Congratulations to Paul Harte, who has been named as a Divisional Winner in the 2020 Barchester Care Awards. Paul is a finalist in the Maintenance Champion category and has been invited to attend a virtual awards ceremony on 8th October, where he will find out if he has won overall.

Sipping on Mocktails

Our residents designed their own mocktails to enjoy this afternoon. They filled them with different fruits - such a great way of keeping hydrated over summer!

Outdoor Games in the Sunshine

We have been making the most of this glorious sunshine with some outdoor games in our lovely gardens. Outdoor games like these are brilliant for keeping up mobility as well as encouraging the residents to get competitive!!