Virtually Connecting Our Homes

Socialising is such an important part of our lives and supports mental health. Our staff have done a fantastic job adapting to the current times and continuing to keep our residents connected, whether virtually or within bubbles. The introduction of video calls has enabled our homes to maintain their friendships with one another.

Coming together over music, ten residents from Astbury Manor and Merlin Court’s choir formed one voice and sang with each other over a video call. They performed four songs, including ‘Wouldn’t It Be Lovely’. The choirs plan to meet every Tuesday virtually and are aiming to host a concert once they can safely meet in person. Merlin Court’s Home Manager Michael Berkley-Blezard mentioned, “This has been a fantastic social opportunity to develop relationships between two groups of residents and develop meaningful friendships.”

Newly opened homes Edenbridge Manor and Droitwich Mews enjoyed the company of one another as their residents met for a virtual coffee morning. All those involved sat down with a slice of cake and a cuppa as they introduced themselves. They discovered their shared passion for drawing and have agreed to send each other pictures each month. Droitwich Mews resident Shelagh said, “Wasn’t that lovely. I can’t wait to see them again!” The residents thoroughly enjoyed the coffee morning and have arranged to meet every Wednesday to catch up and look forward to visiting each other’s home when safe to do so. The virtual coffee mornings are particularly special for resident Eileen, who recently moved into Edenbridge Manor from Wales to be closer to her family. Customer Services Manager, Tina Jeffery, said, “Eileen loves to sing and even started an impromptu sing-a-long in one virtual session with Droitwich Mews.”