04 March 2010

Residents enjoy being pampered to mark national event

Residents at a Balcombe care home enjoyed a day of footspas, massages and manicures as part of a national day celebrating dignity in care.

Russettings Care Home, in Mill Lane, held a pamper event on February 26 to mark Dignity Action Day.

The national event is part of the Department of Health’s Dignity in Care campaign, which aims to create a care system where there is zero tolerance of abuse and disrespect of adults.

The home’s conservatory was transformed into a spa room for the day, with relaxing music played in the background and essential oil burners were set up to give off calming scents.

Resident Richard Walker, who enjoyed a footspa followed by a foot and leg massage, said he felt great after his treatments.

Fellow resident Olive Tully, who has suffered from arthritis for many years, said her hands felt lovely after she had a special procedure to help with the condition which involved dipping her hands into hemp paraffin wax before placing them into heated infra-red mittens.

Lynette Gravesande, senior business development assistant at Russettings, helped organise the day as she is a qualified masseuse.

“The government is pushing a big national drive in the healthcare sector to guarantee people who receive care are treated with dignity and Russettings is fully behind this campaign,” she said.

“We celebrated Dignity in Action Day because we wanted to show our commitment to ensuring the residents we look after are treated as individuals, are given choice, control and a sense of purpose in their daily lives and are provided with stimulating activities.

“Everyone had a good giggle during the event and all the residents enjoyed being pampered.”

01 March 2010

Afternoon Tea to help Haiti

Residents, Staff and relatives from Mockley Mnaor Care Home in Ullenhall got together on Saturday 20th February to enjoy a cuppa and raise money for the Haiti earthquake appeal.

The day was a great success and the home raised £200 which will go directly to the DEC appeal.

25 February 2010

Care home rolls back the years to mark national event

A musical afternoon featuring old records played on a gramophone is set to entertain residents at a Bidford-on-Avon care home as part of a national day celebrating dignity in care.

Waterloo House Care Home, in Waterloo Road, is set to play a range of music from the 1920s onwards to mark Dignity Action Day on February 25.

The national event is part of the Department of Health’s Dignity in Care campaign, which aims to create a care system where there is zero tolerance of abuse and disrespect of adults.

Residents at Waterloo House are set to be joined on the day by staff, relatives and friends for afternoon tea while listening to a selection of records from years gone by played through a wind-up gramophone.

Laura Coles, care home manager, said: “The government is pushing a big national drive in the healthcare sector to guarantee people who receive care are treated with dignity and Waterloo House is fully behind this campaign.

“We are celebrating Dignity in Action Day because we want to show our commitment to ensuring the residents we look after are treated as individuals, are given choice, control and a sense of purpose in their daily lives and are provided with stimulating activities.

“We have invited Chris Wall of Gramophone Record Memories to bring along his wind-up gramophone and collection of 78 RPM gramophone records so the residents can enjoy an afternoon filled with the music they love, including songs from the music hall, the 1920s and the wartime era.

“It should be a really enjoyable and nostalgic afternoon for everyone at the home.”

23 February 2010

Wii gives care home residents a boost

Elderly residents at a Bromsgrove care home have been keeping physically and mentally active thanks to a new games console.

Regents Court Care Home, in Stourbridge Road, has been given a Nintendo Wii to aid residents’ mobility and to keep them mentally alert.

Staff at the home are hoping the games will benefit residents, particularly those with dementia.

Residents aged in their 80s and 90s have been enjoying playing on the Wii and Wii Fit board, which feature balancing activities, brain training games and simulated sports.

Karen Hancox, the care home’s manager, said: “The Wii has been a great success with the residents.

“The variety of games help increase mobility, maintain hand-eye coordination and keep the brain active. People can play individually or in groups so it has had a really good impact on the residents’ social interaction.

“I read in a specialist dementia magazine about the positive effects the Wii has had in other care homes and thought it would be great to get one for Regents Court.

“Alpha Care Homes, who owns Regents Court, was kind enough to purchase the console and the residents have been having great fun since it arrived, playing bowling, cycling, walking and a host of other games.”

17 February 2010

Care home group gets behind Haiti appeal

Kind-hearted staff at a Redditch-based care home group are holding a series of fundraising events in aid of the Haiti earthquake appeal.

Workers at Alpha Care Homes’ headquarters, in Moons Moat Drive, were able to come into work in casual clothes on Wednesday (JAN 27) after they made a donation to the appeal.

A number of the group’s care homes are holding events over the next week to raise money to help victims of the devastating earthquake which struck the Caribbean nation of Haiti on January 12.

Mockley Manor Care Home, in Ullenhall, Warwickshire, is set to have a raffle, while Tutnall Hall Care Home, in Tutnall, Bromsgrove, will hold a coffee morning and staff will also donate money to wear pyjamas to work on Friday (JAN 29).

Westley Court Care Home, in Cookley, Worcestershire, also held a pyjama day on Wednesday (JAN 27) which raised £365.

Grosvenor House Care Home, in Alvechurch, Worcestershire; Waterloo House Care Home, in Bidford-on-Avon, Warwickshire; Willow Grange Care Home, in Olton, Solihull; and Bromson Hill Care Home, in Ashorne, Warwickshire, are all due to host coffee mornings.

Russettings Care Home, in Balcombe, West Sussex , and Cloisters Care Home, in Hounslow, Middlesex, will give there fundraising efforts a tropical flavour by holding Caribbean-themed coffee mornings.

Tracey York, Alpha’s business development assistant, said: “Everyone who works at Alpha Care Homes has been moved by the terrible events that have recently unfolded in Haiti.

“We wanted to do something to help those who have been affected by this devastating earthquake, which is why we decided to organise a fundraising event at our head office, as well as various activities across the homes in our group.

“We are particularly concerned for the older people of Haiti who have been hurt or who have lost their homes in the earthquake and we hope the money we raise will help increase the effectiveness of the relief work currently taking place on the ground.”

02 February 2010

Staff rise and shine for event

Staff at a Bromsgrove care home are set to arrive at work in an unusual dress code for a special fundraising event.

Tutnall Hall Care Home, in Tutnall Lane, Tutnall, is due to hold a pyjama day on January 29.

Workers will spend the whole day dressed in their pyjamas.

Tutnall residents will also be served a full English breakfast for lunch as part of the event, as well as participating in activities and games throughout the day.

Gill Squance, the home’s activities coordinator, said: “We try and hold a number of events throughout the year for the staff and residents to get involved in, we wanted to do something a bit different this time around which is why we decided on a pyjama theme.

“The staff and residents are all looking forward to the event, which should be a fun occasion for all.”

02 February 2010

Care home’s support for cancer campaign is loud and proud

Staff and residents at a Great Wyrley care home donned wacky outfits for a colourful fundraising event.

Lakeview Care Home, in Stafford Road, took part in national Be Loud Be Clear week, run by the UK charity group Beating Bowel Cancer.

The care home hosted its own event on January 28, which saw residents and staff dress in the loudest and most colourful clothes they could find to pull in the pounds for the group.

Lakeview raised £165 on the day.

Kerry Jackson, care home manager, said: “Everyone at Lakeview was proud to join thousands of others across the country in raising money for Beating Bowel Cancer during Be Loud Be Clear week, which ran from January 25 to January 31.

“The idea was to pick a date within the week and hold a fundraising event where people were encouraged to dress in the brightest and loudest clothes possible and hold a collection to gather donations.

“I’m really pleased we managed to raise £165 for such a worthy cause and everyone at the home had great fun on the day.”

27 January 2010

Care home staff raise cash for Haiti victims

Staff at a Cookley care home are set to arrive at work in an unusual dress code for a special event to raise funds for the Haiti earthquake appeal.

Westley Court Care Home, in Austcliffe Lane, is due to hold a pyjama day on January 27.

Workers will spend the whole day dressed in their pyjamas to raise money for the people of Haiti who have been affected by the devastating earthquake which struck the Caribbean country last week.

Westley Court residents will also be served a full English breakfast for lunch as part of the event, as well as participating in activities and games throughout the day.

Diane Day, the home’s activities coordinator, said: “We were originally going to hold the event to raise money for the home’s residents’ fund but we have decided to send the proceeds to Haiti after being moved by the recent events there.

“The staff and residents are all looking forward to the event, which should be a fun occasion for all, and hopefully we will be able to make a small contribution to something we all feel is such a worthy cause.”

26 January 2010

Residents face tasty bushtucker trial

Kangaroo and crocodile will be served up to residents at an Ullenhall care home when it celebrates Australia Day.

Mockley Manor Care Home, in Forde Hall Lane, is set to hold a special event to mark Australia's national day on January 26.

Residents will get the chance to sample a range of dishes from down under as part of the celebrations, including unusual meats such as crocodile and kangaroo.

Staff and residents will get into the Aussie spirit by wearing traditional cork hats and the home will also be decorated with Australian-themed props and flags.

Kerry Hant, the home's activities coordinator, said: "We regularly hold themed days as part of our activities programme at the home. Last year we marked Chinese New Year so this year we thought we would celebrate Australia Day.

"There are a host of activities and games planned for the day and the most exciting is our Australian menu, which will see residents given the chance to taste some interesting cuisine which they probably won't have eaten before.

"Fortunately our local butcher stocks a range of exotic meats so we will be able to cook-up a real treat using crocodile and kangaroo meat!"

25 January 2010

Care home residents enjoy neeps and tatties on Burns Night

Residents at a Bidford-on-Avon care home marked the life of one of Scotland’s most famous poets with a day of activities.

Waterloo House Care Home, in Waterloo Road, celebrated Burns Night on Monday (JAN 25) with a Scottish themed day.

Residents feasted on a traditional lunch of mince beef, neeps and tatties, followed by a serving of the Scottish dessert, tipsy laird.

Everyone at the home donned tartan hats and ties for the celebrations and listened to bag pipe music.

Laura Silcock, care home manager, said: “All the staff and residents had a great time at our Burns Night celebrations.

“Everyone really got into the spirit of the event by eating a traditional menu and wearing Scottish fancy dress.

“We try to come up with interesting and fun activities for the residents, which is why we decided to mark Burns Night with a special themed day.”

Burns Night is a celebration of the life of Robert Burns, a Scottish poet who was born on January 25 1759.

19 January 2010

Never too old to be pampered

A new hair salon and nail bar are helping residents at an Alvechurch care home start the new year in style.
Grosvenor House Care Home, in Aqueduct Lane, has recently unveiled its new beauty facility, where residents can relax, have a manicure, a hand massage and a haircut.
The salon is equipped with two hair wash stations, a sit under dryer and a nail bar to give residents a complete pamper experience.
Jean Tandy, care home manager, said: “We are thrilled with the new salon and I know the residents really enjoy coming to see our hairdresser every week.

“The nail bar is a fantastic idea as the residents enjoy having a relaxing hand massage, a manicure and a good old chat!”

12 January 2010

WANTED – YOUR UNWANTED CHRISTMAS PRESENTS

A Bromsgrove care home is appealing for unwanted Christmas presents that would bring some fun to residents with dementia.

Regents Court, owned by Alpha Care Homes, in Stourbridge Road, recently launched a ‘Rummage Room’ for its residents, with items such as toys, handbags and hats.

“Residents with dementia go in there to rummage around and try on or have some fun with the items,” said Karen Hancox, home manager.

“It’s stimulating and therapeutic for them to see familiar items that were part of their lives in years gone by.

“We really need help to fill the room up so if anyone has any unwanted baby prams, dolls, bags, hats or similar items we would be really grateful for them.”
People are welcome to drop items to the home at 128, Stourbridge Road, or telephone 01527 879 119 if they need collection.

10 January 2010

Care home residents spring into action

Care home residents spring into 2010
 
Residents at an Olton care home are getting fit for the new year thanks to a fun exercise class.
 
Willow Grange Care Home, in St Bernards Road, has started ‘Boogie Bounce’ sessions.
 
Carer Hayley Watson, who is also a qualified fitness instructor with specialist training for the elderly, leads the class - which sees residents take part in some gentle exercise to music and then have a go on a small fitness trampoline.
 
Rosemary Hennessey, the home’s activities coordinator, said the residents really enjoyed Hayley’s sessions.
 
“Regular mobility is essential as the body gets older as it keeps the joints supple and prevents stiffness,” she said.
 
“The more mobility sessions we can introduce, the better. We are hoping the ‘Boogie Bounce’ sessions will become a regular part of the activities schedule at Willow Grange.”

30 December 2009

Christmas Carol Service at Tutnall

Residents at Tutnall had a special surprise this week when the Bromsgrove Lions came to visit.

The Bromsgrove Lions group brought mince pies and entertained all staff and residents with a beautiful Christmas Carol Service.  

10 December 2009

Reindeer spread Christmas cheer at care home

Two live reindeer brought an early Christmas present to residents at an Ullenhall care home.

The festive animals, accompanied by Santa’s sleigh, took time out from their preparations for Christmas by paying a flying visit to Mockley Manor Care Home, in Forde Hall Lane, on December 8.

The reindeer, named Holly and Nicholas, were brought along by The Animal Company.

Residents were also entertained on the day by children from Kidderminster’s Stourminster School.

Pupils aged between seven and 12 performed a nativity play, as well as singing carols and Christmas songs.

Kerry Hant, the home’s activities coordinator, said: “We arranged for two reindeer to come and say hello to residents in the build up to Christmas.

“A lot of our residents and staff have never seen live reindeer before so was a wonderful experience kick started the festive season at Mockley Manor.

“We are delighted that the children from Stourminster joined us for the event and everyone at the home enjoyed their performance.”

Aimee Pearce, Stourminster School’s Primary Faculty Head, said: “The children worked very hard to get ready to perform the nativity play at Mockley Manor.

“It was the first time our school has paid a visit to the home and the 20 children taking part really looked forward to meeting the residents and the reindeer.

“The day was a lovely way to celebrate Christmas.”

10 December 2009

Santa and friends spread Christmas cheer at care home

Santa Claus and his reindeer brought an early Christmas present to residents at a Bidford-on-Avon care home.

Father Christmas, accompanied by two live reindeer and his sleigh, took time out from their festive preparations by paying a visit to Waterloo House Care Home, in Waterloo Road, on December 8.

The reindeer, named Holly and Nicholas, were brought along by the Animal Company.

Residents and staff were joined on the day by the Home Farm Trust, a local charity which supports adults with learning disabilities.

Carina McAuliffe, the home’s activities coordinator, said: “Christmas is a lovely time of year and at Waterloo House we always arrange activities to make sure the residents have an enjoyable time.

“Having Santa visit with his reindeer is about as festive as it gets so it was a really special day for the residents and the Home Farm Trust to enjoy.

“Our residents love interacting with animals and many of them had not seen live reindeer before so it was an extra special treat.

“Waterloo House is a specialist dementia home and we often use pet therapy to help our residents so having reindeer visit put a new twist on this.

“We are always looking to be a part of the wider community in Bidford-on-Avon which is why we have invited the Home Farm Trust to join us for our Christmas celebrations.”

07 December 2009

Viva Las Vegas at Balcombe Care Home!

Russettings Care Home, in Mill Lane, is held a Las Vegas day on Wednesday November 18th.

Residents and staff were serenaded at the event by an Elvis impersonator, in a tribute to the popular singer.

A Vegas-style casino was also set up at the home, were residents had the opportunity to gamble with chips on games such as roulette, black jack and craps.

Members of the Crossroads Club, a charitable organisation whose club in Balcombe visits Russettings once a month to enjoy the facilities and entertainment, came along to join the residents and their families for this fun-filled afternoon.

Margaret Pickering, the home’s activities coordinator, said: “The Las Vegas day was a great event for everyone at the home to get involved in.

“We decided to organise the event as something a bit different for our residents who really loved seeing the Elvis impersonator in action. A lot of them really enjoy listening to that style of music and being able to reminisce.

“Russettings is always looking for different events and activities for the residents and this Vegas-themed activities will be a big hit.”

23 November 2009

RINGING THE CHANGES AT WATERLOO HOUSE

This bright red telephone box definitely rings a bell with residents at Waterloo House Care home in Bidford on Avon.

The authentic, old-fashioned phone booth was custom-made for the home, in Waterloo Road, by Gordon Vernon, of Great Barr, Birmingham, to bring back memories for residents, many of whom have dementia.

Laura Coles, manager of Waterloo House, which is owned by Alpha Care Homes, said: “We are always looking at ways of providing activities and props to help our residents to reminisce as part of their therapy.

“Gordon has done a fabulous job in building the phone box for our garden and we are delighted to have taken delivery of it.”

Gordon is the father-in-law of Pauline Vernon, Peripatetic Assistant for Alpha Care Homes, who used to be manager at Waterloo House, which specialises in dementia care.

The residents are thrilled with the new phone box, which takes pride of place in the home’s memory garden.

23 November 2009

Karen’s top of the class!

A Bromsgrove care home manager is celebrating after passing a specialist course.

Karen Hancox, manager at Regents Court Care Home, has successfully completed a year-long diploma in dementia care.

The qualification, called Dementia Care Matters, aimed to show leaders how to put people at the centre of dementia care.

Karen has already put into practice the knowledge she has learned by training staff at the Stourbridge Road home on the topics she covered in the course.

She said: “The course has given me further insight and knowledge on dementia care.

“We are improving the residents’ wellbeing and the changes we have already made have been successful.

“For example, staff at Regents Court no longer wear a uniform which has helped improve relationships by removing that perceived barrier between staff and residents.”

Karen’s course was jointly funded by Worcestershire County Council and Alpha Care Homes, who owns Regents Court.

12 November 2009

TANKS FOR THE MEMORIES!

Memories came flooding back for residents at a care home near Kidderminster when they were visited by a tank and a military motorcycle.

First to welcome members of the Birmingham and District Military Vehicle Trust to Westley Court, Cookley, was 83-year-old Bryan Smith, a veteran of the Rifleman Brigade.

Bryan, now a resident at the home, chatted to Mike Salter, from Kidderminster owner of the 1964 Daimler Ferret tank, and Neil Bishop, of Stourport, who took his 1940 Ariel motorcycle to Westley Court on Saturday (November 7th).

Diane Day, activities coordinator at Westley Court, which is owned by Alpha Care Homes, said: “We organised the visit as part of a week of Remembrance activities.

“Our residents were thrilled to see the tank and Mike spent a great deal of time talking to them, sharing experiences and reminiscing, which is such an important activity for them.”

Mike, Neil and Nigel Hepwood, who is a member of the Royal Naval Association, do charity work for the Royal British Legion.

Mike, of Waycroft, Kidderminster, said: “It was great to see Bryan Smith, who went to school with my father – and I took some photos of my parents’ wedding to show him.”

Mike is currently appealing for a secure garage to store his tank over the winter months so that he can carry out essential maintenance on the vehicle, which has a Rolls Royce engine.

Anyone who can help him should phone him on 07932 990710.

06 November 2009

LILLIAN REACHES HER CENTURY AT ULLENHALL CARE HOME

A great grandmother, born in the year that Louis Bleriot flew the first airplane across the English Channel and Joan of Arc was made a saint, will celebrate her 100th birthday at an Ullenhall care home on Thursday (November 5th).

Lillian Steed, who has lived at Mockley Manor Care Home, in Forde Hall Lane, since 2005, still reads a daily newspaper and magazines and enjoys laughing and joking with staff there.

Kerry Hant, activities organiser at Mockley Manor, which is owned by Alpha Care Homes, said: “She is very chatty, asks for her newspaper every day, which she reads in a morning, and then she likes to socialise with our other residents in the afternoon.”

Lillian’s centenary will be celebrated with a tea party for her relatives, residents and staff at the home on Thursday, starting at 2pm.

She was brought up in Dartford, Kent, and then lived in Tovil, near Maidstone, where she worked in factories and in the wartime fire service.

She and her late husband, Bert, who have two sons, two grandchildren and two great grandchildren, moved to Braemar Road in Solihull in the mid 1950s.

In the West Midlands, Lillian worked for a time as a part-time school cook and Bert was a senior foreman for an advertising company.

Her son Ron Steed said: “She was born one of six girls, most of whom lived until their 90s – and she has outlived all of them.

“She enjoys the lovely views from her room at Mockley Manor and also says the food and accommodation are good there.”

05 November 2009

Guy Competition

Care homes across the Alpha group took part in a Guy competition for Bonfire Night. The entries were judged by Caroline Wood Head of Care and the winning home was Russettings Care Home in Balcombe.

All the homes submitted fantastic guy's and it proved to be a tough challenge to chose one winner!

Well done to everyone who entered. 

28 October 2009

Russettings hold a Cream Tea afternoon

Russettings Care Home in Balcombe held an afternoon tea event on Sunday 18th October.

The event included Classical Music provided by two young gentlemen who are studing music at Birmingham University.

The afternoon was a great success and a small admission charge raised funds for the residents to go towards special christmas events and activities.

27 October 2009

Relatives say thanks to Tutnall care home

Relatives of an elderly Worcester lady who died earlier this year at a Bromsgrove care home are set to thank staff with a special donation.

Valerie Rowlands, of Lickey, and her sister Diane Nicholson, of Norfolk, are due to present Tutnall Hall Care Home, in Tutnall Lane, with a bench in memory of their late Aunt, Dot Carter.

Dot, who was born in November 1914, lived at Tutnall for five years after she had a stroke while on holiday in the Lake District. She died in July this year aged 94.

Dot’s two nieces are set to visit the home on Tuesday (OCT 27) along with other family members to officially present the garden bench to staff and residents.

Valerie said: “Our father was Dot’s cousin and our mother, her best friend, went to live with her during the Second World War and stayed for six years – so her house was the first home we knew.

“Auntie Dot was always a second mother to us and we exchanged visits as often as possible. She had a stroke in 1998 and very sadly was never able to go back to her flat.

“She moved to a nursing home, which closed in 2004, and we then had the very good fortune to move her to Tutnall Hall.

“She remained at Tutnall Hall until she died in July and received excellent, loving care during those five years.

“We wanted to dedicate a garden bench to the staff and residents at the home as a memorial to Aunite Dot, and also to show our gratitude for the care she received.”

Gwen Cruickshank, the home’s administrator, said everyone at the home was really appreciative of the donation.

“Dot was well-loved by staff and residents and we were all very sad when she passed away earlier this year,” she said.

“We are very grateful to Dot’s relatives for donating the lovely teak bench with a brass plaque commemorating Dot’s life and we all think it will be a fitting tribute to a lovely lady.”

26 October 2009

VIP – VERY IMPORTANT PONY – VISIT BROMSGROVE CARE HOME

Residents at a Bromsgrove care home saved up some juicy apples for a very special visitors – a miniature Shetland pony called Dream.

The ponies will be calling in at Regents Court, owned by Alpha Care Homes, at 128, Stourbridge Road, on Monday October 26th at 11.30am.

Home manager Karen Hancox said: “We always try to find stimulating activities for our residents and stroking these beautiful little Shetland ponies will be very therapeutic for them.

“The residents are really looking forward to the visit and we’ve been saving up some lovely apples to feed the pony.”

The ponies are being taken to the home by the Phoenix Children’s Foundation, a charity that raises money to provide fun and stimulation for youngsters with special needs, including horse riding.

15 October 2009

Rosalind reaches her century

A former shop keeper is set to celebrate her 100th birthday at a Balcombe care home.

Rosalind Johnson will mark her milestone birthday at Russettings Care Home on Tuesday (OCT 6).

Staff and fellow residents will celebrate Rosalind’s landmark year with a champagne party at the Mill Lane home, before she enjoys an evening meal with relatives.

Family members and friends are also set to hold a special get-together for Rosalind at the home on Sunday.

Rosalind, who was born in London, used to own a haberdashery shop in Burgess Hill, Sussex. She moved to Russettings two years ago.

Margaret Pickering, the home’s activities coordinator, said: “Rosalind is incredibly outgoing and will always participate in the activities we organise at the home. She is particularly fond of singing and often entertains us with a song.

“Rosalind is a lovely lady and we are thrilled to be celebrating such a special occasion with her.

“Everybody at the home wishes Rosalind a very happy birthday and we are all looking forward to the party.”

14 October 2009

Mexican fun at Tutnall care home

A care home near Bromsgrove helped residents shake off the autumn blues with a Mexican themed day.

Tutnall Hall Care Home, in Tutnall Lane, Tutnall, held the special event on Monday (OCT 5).

Staff and residents got into the Mexican spirit by wearing ponchos and sombreros. The home was also decorated with the country’s green, white and red flag.

A Mexican-style lunch was served and the residents also enjoyed entertainment on the day.

Gillian Squance, the home’s activities coordinator, said: “Themed events always go down so well at Tutnall.

“The residents and staff enjoy getting dressed up and they are all such good sports for doing so.

“The day was a real success and we are now deciding what themed day to do next!”

14 October 2009

Care home’s special guest is a real Star!

A four-legged friend was the centre of attention when he paid a special visit to a Ullenhall care home.

Star the donkey, from the Elisabeth Svendsen Trust, received a warm greeting when he dropped in to Mockley Manor Care Home on Tuesday (OCT 6).

Residents got to say hello to Star as he walked around the Forde Hall Lane home’s lounges.

The donkey also visited some of the bedrooms to greet those residents who are less mobile.

Kerry Hant, the home’s activities coordinator, said: “All the residents had been looking forward to seeing the donkey and it was so lovely to see their faces light up when he walked into the lounges and bedrooms.

“Star was a real star and we hope to see him again as part of the activities we plan for the residents at Mockley.”

The Elisabeth Svendsen Trust provides donkey therapy to children with special needs at its purpose-built centres located around the country.

The Trust also does outreach therapy visits to adults in nursing homes.

28 September 2009

Care home residents step out and raise cash for Alzheimer’s Society

Residents and staff at an Alcester care home put their best foot forward when they took part in a sponsored walk.

Waterloo House Care Home, in Bidford on Avon, held a memory walk on September 24 to raise money for the Alzheimer’s Society – and they brought in £255 for the charity.

Residents were joined by friends, relatives and staff to complete laps of the care home’s garden to pull in the pounds for the charity.

Staff also wore fancy dress to brighten up the event

Laura Silcock, care home manager, said: “The residents and staff at Waterloo House wanted to get involved in the memory walks again this year and, after speaking to the Alzheimer’s Society, we decided to put on our own event at the home so that everyone could take part.

“The event was a great opportunity for friends and family members to get together and have a fun day doing something worthwhile.”

Waterloo House specialises in residential dementia care.

22 September 2009

Care home group creates a stir for charity

Staff at the Worcestershire headquarters of a group of care homes are set to pull in the pounds for charity by enjoying a cuppa.

Alpha Care Homes is due to take part in the world’s biggest coffee morning on September 21 in aid of Macmillan Cancer Support.

A coffee morning will be held at Alpha’s head office in Redditch, as well as at a number of the its 13 care homes throughout the West Midlands, West Sussex and London.

Staff, residents and relatives will make donations and enjoy hot drinks and cakes during the event in order to raise funds for the cancer charity.

Tracey York, Alpha Care Homes’ business development assistant, said head office staff would also be donating a pound to dress up or dress down for the day.

“Alpha always takes part in this worthwhile fundraising event but this year we thought we would add a different twist by allowing staff to wear what they want to work,” she said.

“We are expecting to see staff in different outfits from their normal office attire which will hopefully raise some extra cash for this worthy cause.”

18 September 2009

New Bus Stop at Regents Court Care Home

Regents Court Care home on Stourbridge road in Bromsgrove has taken delivery of it’s very own authentic bus Stop.  The post box has been custom made for Regents and includes the original Midland Bus Company signage and route number 144.

The home specializes in Dementia and this new equipment gives the residents a sense of familiarity. Care Home Manager Karen Hancox said “The home is looking to pioneer in activities for its residents who suffer from Dementia”

The Bus Stop has been custom made by Richard Eccleston who owns the company outward care who specialize in dementia equipment, who earlier in the year made a postbox for the home.

16 September 2009

Care home residents step back in time for charity

Residents at a Middlesex care home are set to put their best foot forward for a sponsored walk with a wartime twist.

Cloisters Care Home, in Hounslow, will be holding a memory walk on September 14 to raise money for the Alzheimer’s Society.

Residents will be joined by friends, relatives and staff to complete laps of the Bath Road home’s garden to pull in the pounds for the charity.

The event will have a Second World War theme which will see participants carry a ration book, which will be stamped after every lap, and those taking part will don a brown label like those worn by evacuees.

Residents will also be asked a simple question about the war at the end of each lap.

Alex Henderson, the home’s senior activities coordinator, said Cloisters decided to organise its own walk because it was unable to travel to official memory walk events in other parts of the country.

“The residents and staff at Cloisters wanted to get involved in the memory walks but, unfortunately, it was a logistical nightmare trying to get so many residents to these events,” she said.

“We felt the simplest thing to do was to put on our own memory walk so that nobody at the home missed out.

“It will also be a great opportunity for friends and family members to get together and have a fun day doing something worthwhile.

“The Hounslow Alzheimer’s Society helps us run a quarterly dementia support group for family members and carers at Cloisters, so raising money for this cause has even more significance for us.”

The next support group is set to take place in November and members of the public are welcome to join. Those who want more information can contact the home’s manager on 020 8572 4131.

Cloisters opened a new dementia unit earlier this year.

14 September 2009

CALLING ALL NURSES

A Worcestershire-based group of care homes is trying to recruit a total of 18 staff in the county and Warwickshire – but is finding nurses are in short supply.

Alpha Care Homes, which has its head office in Redditch, needs five Registered General Nurses for local homes, as well as a training officer, care assistants, laundry assistant, weekend cook, domestic assistant and office support staff.

The group owns a total of five homes in Worcestershire – at Bromsgrove, Alvechurch and Cookley, near Kidderminster – and three in Warwickshire, caring for 247 residents.
Caroline Wood, Head of Care for Alpha, said: “As the number of residents we look after increases we need to recruit more staff as we are committed to offering the best quality care. During this time of rising unemployment we have continued to fill job vacancies with relative ease – with the exception of nurses as there is a short supply of qualified nurses nationally and as a result of the Border and Immigration service tightening the criteria for work permits and visas.
“We have a fantastic, in-house training scheme in place, including NVQ qualifications, so there are real opportunities for people who join our team to develop and grow to meet their ambitions and aspirations.
“Most of our care home managers started their careers with Alpha as a Registered General Nurse and, through hard work and training, have achieved their goals.”

Alpha aims to recruit two nurses at Wayside Care Home, New Road, Bromsgrove, one at Mockley Manor, Forde Hall Lane, Ullenhall, which is near Redditch but just over the Warwickshire border, and two at Westley Court in Austcliffe Lane, Cookley, near Kidderminster.
The group, which employs a total of more than 600 staff in Worcestershire, the West Midlands, West Sussex and London, also needs a training officer and office support staff at its head office, in Moons Moat Drive, Redditch.

07 September 2009

BALCOMBE CARE HOME RESIDENTS CLOCK UP 435 YEARS!

Russettings Care Home, in Balcombe, West Sussex, is having a big month of celebrations – with five residents all notching up birthdays in August.

The combined ages of the birthday boys and girls is 435 years!

They are: Olive Tulley, who was 83 on August 14th; Joan Walker, whose 85th birthday was on the 15th; Ann Fortnam and Kenward Mason, who both turned 90, on the 15th and 19th respectively; and Richard Walker, who will be 87 on the 28th.

A big combined celebration will be held at Russettings, which is owned by Alpha Care Homes, on Friday August 28th, including entertainment, champagne, flowers, presents and birthday cake.

Russettings manager Mark Adjorlolo said: “We put on regular events to entertain and stimulate our residents and always make sure we celebrate all of their birthdays and other red letter days.

“With so many birthdays in August, we decided to have a really big celebration for everyone to join in – and we are all really excited about it.”

28 August 2009

Kind donation strikes a chord with care home

Residents at a Cookley care home will be hitting all the right notes after receiving a musical gift.

An electric organ has been given to Westley Court Care Home, in Austcliffe Lane.

Philip Cook, a friend of the home, kindly donated the musical instrument for residents to enjoy.

The organ was originally owned by David Ingley, who has gone on to be a professional organist playing across the UK.

Residents and staff were able to listen to David play the organ at a thank you event held at the home.

Diane Day, the home’s activities coordinator, said: “All the residents thoroughly enjoyed hearing David perform on the organ and we are looking forward to trying it out ourselves.”

26 August 2009

Special Training at Waterloo House

Gabby Sanchez of David Baker Funeral Directors hosted a training seminar at Waterloo House Care Home to help staff qualifying for their NVQ certificate and dispel some of the myths surrounding his profession.

Laura Silcock, manager at the home said "we encourage all our staff to attend a wide range of training in order to offer our residents the most professional care and were delighted that Mr Sanchez was able to present this seminar"

23 July 2009

Lakeview Open new Snoozelum

Lakeview Care Home held a grand opening of it's new Snoozelum on 16th July. The room was offically opened by Mike Lockley from the Cannock Chase post.

The theme of the new room is an underwater world with sea and beach scenes painted on the walls.

Kerry Hant Care Home Manager at Lakeview said "We are so pleased with the finished room and it's great that the residents can start to use the room. I very big thank you to Gemma Thompson who created the designs and decorated the room so beautifully"

17 July 2009

A New Aromatherapist for Cloisters

Cloisters Care Home in Hounslow gave a big welcome to their new Aromatherapist Linda who started at the home last week. Cloisters have recently opened a new Dementia service at the home on Bath Road and the residents will benefit from the aromatherapy sessions being conducted by Linda.

A Big Warm welcome from all at Alpha!

09 July 2009

‘BAD HAIR’, SILLY SOCKS AND PICNICS AT BIDFORD CARE HOME

A Bidford on Avon care home is having a hilarious week, featuring ‘bad hair’, silly socks and a picnic in the park.

The events at Waterloo House and Avon Lodge Care Home, in Waterloo Road, are all part of the Alzheimer’s Society’s Dementia Awareness Week, running from July 6th to 12th.

The week kicked off on Monday with a ‘Silly Sock Day’, while on Wednesday (8th July) staff and residents teased their tresses into weird and wonderful designs for a Bad Hair Day.

Weather permitting, there will be a ‘Picnic in the Park’ on Friday (July 10th) and other fun includes a rounders match between staff at the home and the Alpha Care Homes group’s regional office and a Dementia Support Evening.

Activities coordinator Sarah Langston said: “Waterloo House specialises in residential dementia care, so it is very fitting that we should do all we can to take part in this special awareness week.

“Providing stimulating and fun activities is a major part of our service to care for people who have dementia.”

29 June 2009

Garden development is a breath of fresh air

A kind-hearted property developer has given a Bromsgrove care home a breath of fresh air by improving its garden.

Paul Were, of Paul Were Property Development, gave up his time free of charge to construct a raised bed in the grounds of Wayside Care Home, in New Road, free of charge.

The raised bed will help residents in wheelchairs to access the home’s garden and to plant vegetables, herbs and fruit.

Staff and residents are hoping the development will help in Wayside’s bid to win first prize in the Breath of Fresh Air Competition.

The contest, organised by the National Association for Providers of Activities for Older People (NAPA), aims to let residents enjoy summer by challenging care homes to offer some fresh air activities to all residents during the week.

NAPA is offering £3,000 first prize to the winning care home to be spent on activities for residents.

Sue McFarlane, the home’s activities coordinator, said: “It will be wonderful for the residents to get out in the garden and start planting.

“This is such a worthy activity and the raised bed is just the right height for wheelchairs.

“We are hoping to do well in the competition as we have completed a wide range of activities including ice cream making, walks out and making hanging baskets.”

25 June 2009

Rescue Pony gets special visitors

Residents from an Ashorne Care Home enjoyed a special day out when they paid a visit to an old friend.

Bromson Hill Care Home residents took a trip to Oxhill Rescue Centre to see their adopted pony, a 25-year old Shetland called Wensley.

Having been rescued by the centre in June 2004, Wensley has adopted by the care home for the third year running and its residents visit “as much as possible”.

Residents and staff visited the centre at Redwings to see the Shetland pony on June 18th.

Jackie Vernon, activities co-ordinator for the care home, said: “We try and visit the rescue centre as much as possible. It’s important for our residents to have contact with animals and the centre is close to the home and has a sense of belonging in the community.”

25 June 2009

Tutnall Hall Goes Organic

Residents at Tutnall Hall have been busy over the past months planting vegetables including tomatoes and cucmbers and finally this week after a very patient wait the harvest was ready.

Large tomatoes were picked along with other vegetables by the residents with these being totally organic.

Gillian Squance the activites co-ordinator at the home said "We didn't expect the vegetables to be so lovely, the residents have really enjoyed planting and picking the vegetables and we are hoping to get some more in the ground for another harvest later in the summer"

17 June 2009

Furry friends pay special visit to care home

A host of farmyard friends are set to spread a little animal magic when they visit a Balcombe care home.

Cuddle-me-do Mobile Farm is due to drop in to Russettings Care Home, in Mill Lane, on Monday.

The educational service, which operates throughout Southern England, lets elderly residents experience the sights, sounds and feel of the farm in the safety of the care home environment.

Staff and residents at the home, which is run by Alpha Care Homes, are set to welcome a range of animals during the event, including goats, lambs, piglets, rabbits, chicks, owls and hedgehogs.

Mandy Mulvaney, the home’s activities coordinator, said: “All the animals used for the visits are selected for their temperament and their welfare is always our paramount concern.

“Alpha Care Homes invited a similar farm to one of its other homes in Middlesex which was a great success and all the residents thoroughly enjoyed the whole experience.

“The farm will be set up in the grounds of the home and some of the animals will be brought into the home to visit those who are unable to leave their rooms so that all the residents are able to benefit from the experience.”

The visit will form part of Russettings’ bid to win first prize in the Breath of Fresh Air Week Challenge, which runs from June 15 to 21.

The competition, organised by the National Association for Providers of Activities for Older People (NAPA), aims to let residents enjoy mid-summer by challenging care homes to offer some fresh air to all residents during the week.

Russettings will also be visiting Balcombe Primary School’s fete on June 20 as part of the scheme. Residents will be helping to sell a variety of gifts at the event to raise money for their residents’ association.

NAPA is offering £3,000 first prize to the winning care home to be spent on activities for residents.

16 June 2009

Anne Celebrates her Century

A former music teacher is set to celebrate her 100th birthday at a Bromsgrove care home.

Anne Manders will mark her milestone birthday at Regents Court Care Home on Friday (JUN 12).

Staff and fellow residents will celebrate Anne’s landmark year with an afternoon of music and entertainment at the Stourbridge Road home.

Anne’s two daughters Liz Rayner and Susan Palmer will be joining her for the party, with Liz making a special trip from her home in France.

Great grandmother Anne used to be a music teacher at Catherine de Barnes School in Solihull where she was also a former pupil.

Karen Hancox, care home manager, said: “Anne has been a Regents Court since it opened in September 2006 and everybody loves her.

“Anne is a really interesting character and we are thrilled to be celebrating such a special occasion with her.

“Everybody at the home wishes Anne a very happy birthday and we are all looking forward to the party.”

Regents Court Care Home, which is owned by Alpha Care Homes, specialises in dementia care.

03 June 2009

Trio celebrate their centuries at care home

A resident at an Olton care home is set to celebrate her 100th birthday.

Willow Grange Care Home, in St Bernards Road, is due to hold a party to mark Minnie Eyres’ special day on June 3.

Fellow residents Nellie Peers and Emily Long are also due to be celebrate special birthdays in June.

Nellie will be 103 on June 14 while June 23 will see Emily turn 102.

Minnie, who has lived in the Birmingham area all her life, was involved in lots of charity work before moving to Willow Grange six years ago.

Nikki Pudney, care home manager, said: “Staff, residents and Minnie’s family are due to come together to celebrate her landmark birthday with an extra special party at the home.

“We are all really looking forward to marking Minnie’s special day in style.

“It is wonderful we have so residents celebrating more than 100 years this month – there must be something in the water at Willow Grange!”

01 June 2009

Bromson Hill V Mockley Manor

Residents from Bromson Hill Care home in Warwick made a special trip over to Mockley Manor in Ullenhall to battle their wits out in a general knowledge quiz on Monday 1st June.

The residents of both care homes took part in the inter company quiz in the sunshine in the gardens of Mockley Manor.

It was a very enjoyable afternoon had by all and the residents from both homes really enjoyed meeting each other.

01 June 2009

BELLY DANCER SET TO ‘WOW’ CARE HOME RESIDENTS

Residents and staff at a Great Wyrley care home will be trying their hand at belly dancing after watching a show by an expert.

‘Romany’, whose real name is Marie Birch, from Cannock, will perform a dance routine at Waters Edge care home, in Stafford Road on Sunday May 31st.

She will then help the residents and staff to have a go themselves.

Marie is the daughter of Kate Wingate, receptionist at the home, who asked if she would give the performance as a treat.

Sandra Potts, the manager of Waters Edge, which is owned by Alpha Care Homes, said: “We are always trying to arrange various activities for our residents and thought this was very different.

“We hope the afternoon will be full of laughter as the staff and residents have a go at the dancing.”

29 May 2009

Care home residents reap what they sow

Green-fingered residents at an Alvechurch care home have been reaping the rewards after starting a gardening project.

Staff and residents at Grosvenor House, in Aqueduct Lane, have been busy over recent months planting vegetables and herbs in custom-made raised beds at the home.

This week saw their hard work pay off as they got to pick some of the freshly grown organic vegetables.

Jo Costello, the home’s activities coordinator, said the smell of the fresh herbs in the garden was fantastic.

“It is really important for the residents to be out in the garden and these raised beds are just the right height for wheelchairs,” she said.

“We have our very own Alan Titchmarsh in Peter Elliot, our handyman at Grosvenor, who helps tend to the plants.”

The warm Bank Holiday weather meant residents were able to start another gardening project where they were each given a pot to plant their choice of flowers in.

Jo added: “All the residents and staff at the home can’t wait to see what wonderful produce this next project brings over the next few months.”

29 May 2009

Line dancers step out for care home performance

Twinkle-toed residents at a Balcombe care home enjoyed some foot shuffling fun during a visit by a troupe of line dancers. 

Russettings Care Home, in Mill Lane, enjoyed a special performance from the AC (Almost Country) Line Dancers on Thursday (MAY 28).

Residents and staff watched an afternoon of dancing and demonstrations before having a go at some of the moves themselves.

People at the home, which is owned by Alpha Care Homes, had fun dancing to a range of different styles including Irish, traditional country, the waltz and mambo.

Mandy Mulvaney, the home’s activities coordinator, said: “Everybody at the home had a great time watching and getting involved in the dances.

“The residents thoroughly enjoyed a good sing-a-long to the songs. The group were fantastic and really entertained us for the afternoon.”

The line dancing group was founded seven years ago by Annie Harris and now has more than 100 members, ranging from people in their 30s to the oldest member who is aged 96.

28 May 2009

Its all action at the Bromsgrove Care Home

Elderly residents at a Bromsgrove care home are in for some fun when they join in a games day – including the trendy ‘Wii’ programmes – on Wednesday May 27.

A new ‘seven-in-one’ games table, including football and chess, has been purchased for Regents Court, in Stourbridge Road, thanks to staff, who raised the £79 to buy it in raffles at Christmas and Easter.

And the residents are also getting the chance to try out games like tennis and bowls on a ‘Wii’ that is on loan to the home, which is part of the Alpha Care Homes Group.

Karen Hancox, the home’s manager, said: “The new games table will be great stimulation for our residents and we are sure the Wii games will go down really well too.

“We specialise in dementia care and games help to improve residents’ coordination, make them think and encourage them to socialise.

“Once we have thoroughly tried out the Wii, we may well buy one for the home and staff are planning an event in the summer to raise the money.”

27 May 2009

A Bad Hair Day

Staff and residents at a care home near Bromsgrove are preparing their tresses for a ‘bad hair’ day on Thursday May 21st.

The fun event will be held at Tutnall Hall, the Alpha care home at Tutnall, near Bromsgrove, when the residents will also enjoy watching the movie ‘Hairspray’, starring John Travolta.

The home’s activities organiser, Gillian Squance, said: “We are expecting our staff and residents to be sporting many different hairstyles – spikey, ribbons, clips and strange colours will all be making an appearance on the day.

“Everyone’s planning their own, individual hair-do and really looking forward to the event, when we will also be raffling off some hair products.”

The staff and residents will pay a ‘penalty’ for having ‘bad hair’ – donations which will go into the home’s Residents Fund, to be spent on outings and other activities.

26 May 2009

Wild West Day at Willow Grange

Cowboys and cowgirls at an Olton care home will be dusting off their Stetsons in preparation for a special event.

Willow Grange Care Home, in St Bernards Road, is set to hold a Wild West day on Tuesday 26th May.

Residents will dress up in cowboy hats and Native American headdresses for the event and will eat food associated with the Wild West.

The home, part of the Alpha Care Homes group, will be decorated and there will be traditional country and western music and dancing.

Rosemary Hennessey, the home’s activities coordinator, said: “Everybody at the home is really looking forward to the Wild West event.

“The residents thoroughly enjoy a good sing-a-long and the theme days we have organised in the past have been really successful.”

18 May 2009

100 Birthday Celebrations

One of the residents at Waterloo House in Bidford on Avon will be turning 100 years old on Saturday 16th May and to mark this very special occasion the home have organized a day of celebrations and entertainment.

Arthur Prothero is all set to receive the Queens telegram in the morning along with a specially selected party lunch and an afternoon of entertainment from a local singer who will be singing all the war time hits requested by Arthur.

The care home on Waterloo road has been home for Arthur for more than a year. Arthur is an Alcester gentleman originally from Wales, he was a keen gardener in his younger days and worked as a groundsmen in many of the nearby Redditch Schools.

13 May 2009

Goodbye to Eva

The residents and staff at Mockley Manor Care Home in Ullenhall will be saying a fond farewell to Care Assistant Eva Bailey who has worked at the home for over 20 years.

Eva joined the staff of Mockley Manor in September 1986. At that time Eva was working part time for the NHS as well as caring for the residents at Mockley Manor Care Home. Eva fell in love with caring for older people and has worked as a care assistant since then.

Mockley Manor Manager Chenga Llhamo said “Eva is a family woman who is very hard working and has a caring nature. Eva has been so reliable during her time at Mockley and she is always flexible to help out whenever she is needed, she will be missed by all the residents and staff”.

 Eva Bailey said “I have loved looking after all the residents and have treated them as if they were my own mum and dad. I will miss all the residents and staff at Mockley and i would recommend Mockley to anybody as its one of the best homes and the team is fantastic.

13 May 2009

Tea Dance is a “Whale of Time”

The residents of a Great Wyrley care home have been enjoying some toe tapping, hip swinging, foot shuffling fun, as they keep fit, socialise and have a “whale of a time”.

The Norton Canes Community Centre is the venue for the Lakeview Care Home’s regular Tea Dances, which are proving to be very popular among residents.

The events are held weekly, with the latest having taken place on Friday, May 8, for the residents on the Care Home’s residential Windermere unit, who are all invited along.

Chris Carr, the activities manager at Lakeview, which is based on Stafford Road, Great Wyrley, said that everyone who takes part gets some “good exercise” and thoroughly enjoys themselves at the same time.

He added: “The residents enjoy the Tea Dance. It is a regular event we do most Friday afternoons and new residents are encouraged to come along. We all have a whale of time.”

12 May 2009

Mobile Farm comes to Cloisters

The Residents and Staff at Cloisters Care Home had a real treat with a visit from some two and four legged friends.

Miller's Ark the mobile farm visited on Thursday 7th May with Ducks, Sheep, Pig's, Goats, Kittens and a Donkey. The farm was set up in the grounds at Cloisters.

Alex Henderson the Activity Co-ordinator at Cloisters Care Home organised the event and said "Everyone had a wonderful time, all the animals were well behaved and it was lovely to see the residents having a great time with the animals"

01 May 2009

A Blooming Good Time

Residents at Tutnall Hall enjoyed a Blooming Good Time when they went on a lovely walk around the grounds at Tutnall Hall to enjoy the spring blossoms and sunshine.  Seen in the photo, are some that stopped to enjoy the Cherry trees.

28 April 2009

Egg-stra special new guests arrive at care home

Staff at a Bromsgrove care home are hoping they will not get in a flap following the arrival of a group of special new residents.

Regents Court Care Home, in Stourbridge Road, has just taken delivery of four chickens.

Staff, residents and relatives are set to gather for a ‘hen party’ on April 28 to officially welcome the new feathered guests to the care home

Karen Hancox, care home manager, said: “We decided to get the chickens as an activity for the residents.

“Once the new arrivals have settled in, the residents can help with feeding and collecting the eggs. The residents love animals and the chickens will give them a worthy activity to help improve their wellbeing.

“The hens were purchased from a local farm and the residents and staff collected money to purchase a hutch through various fundraising activities held since the start of the year.”

Regents Court Care Home, which is owned by Alpha Care Homes, specialises in dementia care.

27 April 2009

620 reasons to celebrate at Bromson Hill

A care home in Warwick has more than 600 reasons to celebrate this April with seven residents marking birthdays throughout the month.

Bromson Hill Care Home, in Ashorne, is marking a grand total of 620 years of birthdays this month.

The home, part of the Alpha Care Homes group, is set to hold a special celebration day for its birthday boy and girls on Friday 24th April.

The first resident to celebrate was Pearl Adams, who was 74 on April 2.

Next was Joan King, who marked her 89th birthday on April 13. Bob Mozley was 79-years-old on April 15, and Mary Taylor was 89 on April 18. Freda Turner celebrates her 97th birthday on April 25, Lily Wall turns 98 the following day and last but not least, Doris Wyatt will be 94 on April 27.

Jackie Vernon, activities coordinator, said: “All our residents and members of staff are really looking forward to the party.

“It was a nice surprise to discover we had so many people marking their own special days and the joint party will be a lovely way to celebrate so many years of birthdays.”

22 April 2009

Shoppers treated to an Easter Serenade

Shoppers at Asda in Walsall were greeted by 12 singers from Lakeview Care Home, Stafford Road, Great Wyrley wearing Easter Bonnets and singing easter songs.

The group of Ladies who are mostly in their 90's sang at the supermarket to raise funds for the homes activitiy fund. Chris Carr the activity co-ordinator at the home said "They really enjoy singing for the public, this is the third year that this type of event has taken place ad all the singers have helped to make their Easter Bonnets"

 Councilor David Clift was at the Lakeview Care Home on Easter Monday to Judge the homes Easter Bonnet competition but the shoppers at Asda at a sneak preview!

20 April 2009

Cake Making at Lakeview

On Easter Monday afternoon the Buttermere Ladies watched interestingly as two sponge cakes
were decorated for their tea-time.

So that the majority of our high dependency residents would be able to have a taste of the cake, it was covered with Dream Topping not icing. 

15 April 2009

Easter bunny takes up residence at care home

Staff at a Ullenhall care home have a special resident to look after following the arrival of a furry new guest.

Mockley Manor Care Home, in Forde Hall Lane, now has its very own Easter bunny after a resident’s relative donated a pet rabbit to the home.

The home, which is owned by Alpha Care Homes, has held various fundraising activities to buy a hutch for the bunny.

Residents, relatives and staff are also set to take part in a competition to provide Mockley Manor’s latest addition with a name.

Kerry Hant, the home’s activities coordinator, said: “The residents love animals and we have many different creatures come to visit the home.

“We thought it would be nice for the home to have its own pet and the new bunny has arrived just in time for Easter.”

07 April 2009

Youngsters on song during care home performance

Talented youngsters were in fine voice when they visited a Cookley care home to entertain residents with an afternoon of song.

A group of pupils from Wolverley Sebright First School dropped into Westley Court Care Home, in Austcliffe Lane, to give a special performance to residents.

The children sang a selection of songs from the hit musical Mamma Mia! as well as tunes from the school’s recent production of The Pied Piper.

Youngsters from the school also visited the home, which is part of the Alpha Care Homes group, in December last year to entertain residents with a Christmas carol concert.

Diane Day, the home’s activities coordinator, said all the residents really enjoyed the afternoon of singing.

“We are so pleased to have the school back again to perform for the residents as they thoroughly enjoy it,” she said.

“Many of the residents kept asking me when the children would be coming back to sing following their wonderful Christmas performance last year.”

07 April 2009

Merry says goodbye to residents

Residents at an Alcester care home bid a fond farewell to a furry friend as she called in at the home for the last time.

Merry the dog has been visiting Waterloo House Care Home, in Waterloo Road, Bidford on Avon, for the past six years as part of the ‘Pets As Therapy’ (PAT) programme.

But the 12-year-old Collie mix is now retiring from the project due to ill health. 

Merry, a rescue dog, paid her final visit to the home last week (APRIL 1) when residents were able to say goodbye to their four-legged companion.

Owner Jane Hall said: “Merry has such a lovely temperament that we decided to register her as a PAT dog six years ago.

“She has enjoyed coming to Waterloo House and always gets a fuss off the residents.”

Laura Silcock, care home manager, said: “We were very sad to say goodbye to Merry as all the residents always look forward to seeing her.

“Many of the residents used to have pets of their own so the PAT programme is a way for them to build that emotional bond again and enjoy an animal’s company.

“Everyone at the home would like to thank Merry and Jane for taking the time to come and visit us over the years and we wish Merry a very happy retirement!”

Waterloo House, which is owned by Alpha Care Homes, specialises in residential dementia care.

Another two dogs also visit the home as part of the PAT programme.

01 April 2009

101st Birthday Celebrations

Resident Irene Wyld celebrated her 101st Birthday at Cloisters Care Home last week. The day was full of party atmosphere and the celebrations were enjoyed by fellow residents and staff who tried to make the day as special as possible for Irene.

25 March 2009

Proud Mary plays “the generation game”…

Proud mum Mary Dudley had a Mother’s Day to remember when she found herself in the company of THREE generations of her family at a Worcestershire care home!

Mary, aged 89, was visited by her daughter Chris Brettle, grandson Simon Brettle – and his wife Iona – and their daughter Kellyann Brettle in the extended family gathering.

Before long Mary was juggling a huge array of presents comprising flowers, chocolates and a cuddly toy at Tutnall Hall Care Home in Tutnall, near Bromsgrove, where she’s a resident.

Gillian Squance, Activities Co-ordinator at the home, said: “Mary was extremely happy. For four generations of a family to be together on such a special day is a joyful occasion.”

18 March 2009

Irish jig to get care home in St Patrick’s Day spirit

Irish dancers are set to entertain residents at a Bidford-on-Avon care home as part of the home’s St Patrick’s Day celebrations.

Waterloo House Care Home, in Waterloo Road, has organised a range of Irish-themed activities to mark the patron saint’s day.

Residents are set to toast St Patrick’s Day with a glass of Guinness before watching a troupe of Irish dancers perform.

The home will be decorated and staff will dress up in green to get into the spirit of the day.

Laura Silcock, care home manager, said everyone at the home was looking forward to the event.

“We are all hoping to get into the Irish spirit to mark St Patrick’s Day,” she said.

“There will be lots of activities going on at the home throughout the day and the residents are all really looking forward to it. It should be a really fun celebration.”

17 March 2009

Care home set for colourful St Patrick’s celebration

A care home in Great Wyrley will be festooned in green to celebrate St Patrick’s Day.

Waters Edge Care Home, in Stafford Road, has organised a range of Irish-themed activities to mark the patron saint’s day.

Male residents are set to toast St Patrick’s Day with a glass of Guinness, while the ladies enjoy a drop of Irish cream liqueur.

The home will be decorated with shamrocks made by the residents and everyone at the home will dress up in green to get into the spirit of the day.

Residents will also be able to enjoy Irish music and dancing during the special day.

Jenny Cowley, activities coordinator, said everyone at the home was looking forward to the event.

“We are all hoping to get into the Irish spirit to mark St Patrick’s Day,” she said.

“There will be lots of activities going on at the home throughout the day and the residents are all really looking forward to it. It should be a really fun celebration.”

09 March 2009

Hawaiian Fun at Grosvenor House Care Home

A care home in Alvechurch is hoping to shake off the winter blues and get ready for Spring with a tropical party – and is making an imaginary beach with sand, giant blow-up palm trees and coconuts to get in the mood.

Grosvenor House Care Home is holding a Hawaiian day on Wednesday 4th March.

Residents and staff will don flower garlands and bright shirts for the event and will sip cocktails with Hawaiian music playing.

The home’s activity coordinator Jo Costello said: “After all the snow and rain, we wanted to bring a bit of sunshine to the home which is why we decided to organise this event.

“The Hawaiian theme will run throughout the day and a special menu and games have been organised for the residents.”

Grosvenor House is owned by Alpha Care Homes and provides Nursing and respite care for its elderly residents.

03 March 2009

Care home thanks Abba for the music

Dancing kings and queens at an Ashorne care home are tuning up for a special musical event.

Bromson Hill Care Home is set to host an Abba day on Thursday Feb 26.

Residents and staff will dress up in 1970s-style costumes while they sing along to music from the popular Swedish group.

Jackie Vernon, activities coordinator, said everyone at the home was looking forward to the event.

“We decided to organise an Abba-themed day after the residents listened to the group’s songs while they took part in a music and movement exercise session,” she said.

“After the session, a lot of the residents said how much they liked Abba’s music so we thought it would be fun to have a day dedicated to the band.

“Everyone at Bromson Hill is looking forward to getting into the Abba spirit by dressing up and singing along to their songs.”

Bromson Hill Care Home is part of the Alpha Care Homes group and is situated in the peaceful village of Ashorne near Warwick.

01 March 2009

St David's Day Celebrations

Tutnall Hall Care in Tutnall near Bromsgrove celebrated St David's Day on Sunday 1st March with a special menu and activities.

Residents enjoyed Potatoe and Leek Pie for lunch.  Seen in the photo is one of our Welsh Residents, Mary Dudley, with a leek and daffodil bouquet that Gill our Activities lady and her created. 

28 February 2009

Feast of fun on Pancake Day

Residents and staff at two care homes in South Warwickshire are set to enjoy a flipping good time when they take part in fun-packed events to mark Pancake Day 

Residents at Waterloo House and Avon Lodge Care Home in Waterloo Road, Bidford-on-Avon, will be able to show off their creative streak when they get a chance to decorate pancakes with a choice of fillings.

Meanwhile, Mockley Manor Care Home in Forde Hall Lane in Ullenhall, near Henley-in-Arden, will be pulling out the stops in a pancake race – followed by a live demonstration of pancake making.

Tracey York, Business Development Assistant at Alpha Care Homes, which owns both homes, said: “All the homes across the Alpha Care Homes group decided to take part in Pancake Day fun in their own way. Some homes will be having pancake races. Others will be doing live demonstrations for the residents who will get to decorate their own pancakes.

“Activities are really important at the homes and in every way possible the residents are encouraged to take part, helping with motivation and stimulation, as well as having fun.”

Alpha Care Homes, which is headquartered in Redditch, Worcestershire, and runs 13 homes in the West Midlands and South East, was set up to meet the need for small homely environments where service users could feel safe and comfortable whilst leading as active a life as possible.

The 24-hour care provided by each home is supported by additional services such as GP services, chiropody and aromatherapy.

27 February 2009

Care home residents sock it to ‘em

Residents at a Tutnall care home are set to step out in style when they take part in a fundraising event.

Tutnall Hall Care Home, in Tutnall Lane, is holding a silly sock day to raise money for its residents’ fund.

Staff and residents will don colourful socks on Thursday (JAN 29) during a day of activities and entertainment at the home, which is part of the Alpha Care Homes group.

Activities coordinator Gillian Squance said: “This event is going to be a real fun day with staff donating to the residents fund for wearing the silly socks. It will give the home a real party feeling.”

17 February 2009

New Dementia Unit Opens at Cloisters

A specialised unit has opened for elderly residents in Hounslow suffering from dementia at Cloisters Care Home, in Bath Road.

The service, complete with sensory room, memory boxes and reminiscence boards, will be officially launched on Wednesday by Hounslow Mayor Genevieve Hibbs.

One of its main features is a sensory room, equipped with light boxes, special effects projectors, a mirror ball, fibre optic tubes and soothing music.

Complementary therapies will also be offered within the room, which has been designed to calm and relax restless residents.

Other features include memory boxes outside all residents' rooms, 3D signs, rummage boxes with reminders of everyday life, and reminiscence boards where residents are able to display mementoes from their lives.

Work is also underway to create an enclosed garden with raised borders and safe walkways, where residents will be able to relax and try their hand at a spot of gardening.

Care home manager Friday Eborieme, who has spent more than 20 years helping those with dementia, said there was a genuine need for more patient-centred services for such people both nationally and locally.

"Our aim is to enable those with dementia to live as normal and independent a life as possible here at Cloisters," she added.

17 February 2009

CARE HOME RESIDENTS GET ALL DRESSED UP

Laughter peeled out around Waters Edge care home in Great Wyrley as the residents enjoyed a day of getting dressed up ‘to the nines’.

About 20 of the home’s residents donned colourful scarves, hats and jewellery, donated by relatives and staff, and had a grand old time for their recent dressing-up day.

They then wore their finery as they danced, sang and enjoyed a special afternoon tea.

Activities Coordinator Jenny Cowley, who organised the event at the home in Stafford Road, said: “We asked for donations of hats, scarves and jewellery so that our clients with dementia could let their hair down and have some fun dressing up.

“I don’t know who had the most fun actually – our activities team or our residents.
The laughter could be heard all the way to reception.”

The home, which is owned by Alpha Care Homes, is also working hard to help support the relatives of residents with dementia.

The newly-formed Dementia Support Group is holding its second meeting on February 18th, with a special guest speaker, Jean Dutton, from the Lichfield Alzheimer’s Society.

Jenny said: “It is hard to see the change in loved ones when they have dementia – they almost feel they have lost that person.

“Our support group aims to help them to understand their relative’s condition and cope with it.

“It’s also reassuring for them to see how we look after their special needs and to find out that they can still have a good time, just as they did at our dressing up day.”

16 February 2009

Wayside Celebrate the Year of the Ox

Residents and Staff of Wayside Care Home celebrated the Chinese New Year with a special Chinese theme day.

Sweet and Sour chicken and Sushi were on the menu at the home along with some Chinese activities and arts and crafts.

Sue MacFarlane the activity organizer at the home said “The residents really enjoy trying different food and many had not had Sushi before which was an experience. This year is the year of the Ox and to celebrate we have decorated the home with Lanterns, Dragons and Chinese fans.”

16 February 2009

Hawaiian Fun at Cookley Care Home

A care home in Cookley is hoping to shake off the winter blues with a tropical party – and is making an imaginary beach with sand, giant blow-up palm trees and coconuts to get in the mood.

Westley Court Care Home is holding a Hawaiian day on Friday 13th February.

Residents and staff will don grass skirts and flower garlands for the event and will sip cocktails out of pineapples, with Hawaiian music playing.

The home’s activity coordinator Diane Day said: “After all the snow and rain, we wanted to bring a bit of sunshine to the home which is why we decided to organise this event.

“The Hawaiian theme will run throughout the day and a special menu and games have been organised for the residents.”

Westley Court is owned by Alpha Care Homes and provides residential and respite care for its elderly residents.

10 February 2009

New Snoozelum Opens at Regents Court

Regents Court on Stourbridge Road in Bromsgrove opened it's doors to the new snoozelum on 27th January at the home. Specialist sensory equipment has been purchased for the resident’s new room which consists of Bubble tubes, projector with wheel rotator, fibre optic trees, chimes and UV lights with flourescent painted night sky stencils on the ceiling.

The new room was opened by Area Manager Dawn Leaver.

Karen Hancock the Care Home Manager at the home said “This is a really important room for our residents as they can enjoy the sensory equipment and relaxing atmosphere”  

Regents Court specializes in residential Dementia Care which is part of Alpha Care Homes.

27 January 2009

536 REASONS TO CELEBRATE AT WESTLEY COURT

A care home near Kidderminster has more than 500 reasons to celebrate this January with six residents and one member of staff celebrating birthdays throughout the month.

Westley Court Care Home, in Austcliffe Lane, Cookley, is marking a grand total of 536 years of birthdays this month.

The home, part of the Alpha Care Homes group, held a special party for all its birthday boys and girls on Friday 23rd January, complete with entertainment from  guitarist Colin Jones and his wife, singer Jan, and a special party dinner.

The first resident to celebrate was Sarah Dunne, who was 96 on January 3rd. Westley Court activities coordinator Diane Day also celebrated her 63rd birthday on the same day.

Next was Jean Watson, who marked her 69th birthday on January 8th. Michael Watts was 70-years-old on January 21st, and Margery Scott was 72 on January 26th. Betty Hickman celebrates her 84th birthday on January 28 and last but least, Olive Hillman will be 82 on January 30th.

Activities coordinator Diane Day said: “All our residents and members of staff really enjoyed the party. It was a nice surprise to discover we had so many people marking their own special days and the join party was lovely way to celebrate so many years of birthdays!”

27 January 2009

Caribbean fun at West Sussex care home

A care home in Balcombe is hoping to shake off the winter blues with a tropical party – and is making an imaginary beach with giant blow-up palm trees and coconuts to get in the mood.

Russettings Care Home, in Mill Lane, is holding a Caribbean day on Thursday (Jan 22nd).

Residents and staff will don grass skirts and flower garlands for the event and will sip cocktails out of coconuts, with calypso music playing.

The home’s activity coordinator Mandy Mulvaney said: “January is always an anti-climax after Christmas and with the cold weather we have had we wanted to bring a bit of sunshine to the home.

“The Caribbean theme will run throughout the day and a special menu and games have been organised for the residents.”

Russettings is owned by Alpha Care Homes and provides residential and respite care for its elderly residents.

20 January 2009

Special visitor at Grosvenor House

Grosvenor House, Aqueduct Lane, Coopers Hill, Alvechurch, Worcesteshire, B48 7BS

PAT dog ‘Deano’ visited the Alvechurch Care Home to say hello to the residents. Deano is a 6 year old grey hound who was rescued from Perry Barr retired greyhound trust. Owner Pam Dewar explained that Deano was an ex-racer and got his name from the Fred Flintstone pet dinosaur Deano, due to his size! He has been a PAT dog for 12 months.

The residents at Grosvenor House enjoy the visits from PAT Dog Deano “All the residents look forward to seeing him, many had their own pets and it’s great for them” said Jo the Activities Co-ordinator at the home.

The Perry Bar Greyhound trust is a charity that helps home retired greyhounds, they run purely on donations and fundraising.

The PAT Dogs ‘Pets as Therapy’ is a national charity now in it’s 25 year.