Love is in the air at Hayling Island care home
Residents at Wimborne Care Home on Hayling Island were delighted to be the recipients of some beautiful, thoughtful handmade Valentines cards from the children of WAVE (We All Value Each Other), an after school club initiative in Mengham.
There is already an Intergenerational initiative running with these two 'organisations' – the Board Games Group which runs monthly on the 4th Tuesday from 4 – 5pm. This is an opportunity for children and Wimborne residents to engage in games, cake, laughter and chat. But for the children to think of sending cards was very greatly appreciated - an initiative supported through the organisation; 'Embracing Age'. This has strengthened their connections.
Wimborne is already well known on Hayling as a welcoming home, it simply is not what many think of (or fear) when they hear ‘Care Home’. It is light and bright, there is almost 50/50 men and women – this is exceptionally rare in care homes and a huge positive for all living at Wimborne. They have no agency staff, again an absolute rarity and for Hayling they absolutely lead the way in Community Engagement and connections.
Wimborne is a Home for their residents, keeping them with and engaged within the community not removing them from their community. Connections really matter!
But no matter your age or gender, a little bit of feeling loved can make you feel good. The carefully chosen words in cards were so gratefully received and appreciated by residents, it was heart warming to see and this combined with a ‘love wall’ – pictures of weddings, loving relationships and special people brought a warmth and glow to the home that was enjoyed. A valentines meal, red roses on tables, heart decorations and even balloons; everyone had the chance to feel involved, loved, cherished and happy.
Stephen Stace, Peri General Manager of Wimborne commented: “Wimborne has been a sea of hearts and flowers, our Senior Actvities lead Zoe Freeman has had residents engaged in lots of wonderful themed activities, our Head Chef Hayden Jones has prepared wonderful delicious fare and our home is a wonderful heart filled home of happy people. Wimborne is simply full of love and we love that!’
Wimborne care home is run by Barchester Healthcare, one of the UK’s largest care providers, which is committed to delivering personalised care across its care homes and hospitals. Wimborne provides residential and dementia care for 47 residents from respite care to long term stays.