Care home residents enjoy making club breadmaking

There is something quietly powerful about the simple act of baking. Breadmaking provides connection, memory, purpose and joy for the residents at Denmead Grange. Imagine the joy that came from the familiar feel of flour between fingers, crafting a loaf of bread. For some of the Denmead Grange residents baking is deeply rooted in their life story, the feel of dough is something they’d enjoyed with their mothers, unlocking memories words sometimes cannot reach. For others it was something they’d done until recently and for a few it was simply a great thing to do, indeed for others it has provided a bridge back to their identity.

Baking Club is a popular activity at Denmead Grange. The focus is on enjoyment with meaningful activities, supporting both cognitive and physical wellbeing and breadmaking is a very well attended option. Denmead Grange has the space for 60 residents but with activities rooms and 4 lounges there is space for everyone to find something they enjoy morning noon and night if they so choose. Activities are designed to suit individuals skills and interests, to support social engagement, connection, fulfilment and

Head Chef Craig set up everything for the creation of some delicious loaves. His wife Vicky, the Senior Activities Lead was then responsible for the making of the bread. As you will see from the photo the results were impressive and the taste testers gave very positive feedback – not much beats the smell and taste of a loaf warm from the open and these did not disappoint!

GM Abbie Johnston said ‘Our residents have had a great time. As General Manager I know that not only will they enjoy the fruits of their labours but having residents gathering around tables, having tasks adapted to suit each individual, being part of a team is an uplifting time. The laughter, the smiles and the sense of belonging achieved is something I am so proud to see.’’