A Warm Welcome For Our Fabulous Firefighters
Earlier this month, local firefighting teams were treated to a special breakfast at Blenheim Court to mark International Firefighters Day.
A Special Blue Light Breakfast for International Firefighters Day
Blenheim Court hosts a Blue Light Breakfast every Friday morning between 9.30 and 11.30 – a chance for local service providers to drop in for tea, coffee, pastries and a natter with residents in one of the home’s comfy lounges. It’s especially popular with ambulance and hospital patient crews who regularly take a well-earned breakfast break at Blenheim.
International Firefighters’ Day on 4th May is inspired by St Florian, patron saint of firefighters and a Roman army commander who, alongside his military duties, took responsibility for organising and leading firefighting brigades and training an elite group of soldiers whose sole duty was to fight fires. It presented the perfect opportunity for residents and the Blenheim team to acknowledge the support of their local fire crews, so invitations to enjoy a full cooked breakfast were sent to Petersfield, Havant and Grayshott watches. Representatives of all three crews arrived and took the opportunity to network with one another, as well as enjoying the famous Blenheim hospitality.
Residents Get In On The Hose Action
Conversation flourished between the firefighters and residents, and a request was made. Could they please have a tour of an engine and was there any chance they might have a go with the hose?! In no time at all, the tour commenced, followed by the real action!
Resident Ambassador, Jeremy remarked how the powerful the hose was. When watching fellow Ambassador, Jean, wield the hose, he said he was amazed at her strength and surprised she didn’t get pulled over by the force of the water. Resident Ruby was determined to have a go, even though she only has the use of her right arm, and she did brilliantly with the support of the fire officer. Four residents took part and even those who chose not to come outside enjoyed spectating from bedroom windows, the ground floor lounge and the top floor dining room. Everyone had fun, including team members, getting squirted by the hose (it was a windy day, so this was mostly accidental!) and asking fire officers questions about their job. Afterwards, the team put together a video montage of all the great moments – including Jean in action, looking extremely professional wearing a firefighter’s hat!
Let's take a closer look at their fun filled day here.
A Memorable Day Connecting with the Local Community
It was evident that the visit boosted morale throughout the home as residents continued talking about it all day – how interesting it was seeing inside the engine, what an experience it was to use the hose and how friendly the firefighters were. Shortly after the event, a resident’s son told Home Manager, Sam Booty, how great it was to see his father enjoying his time at Blenheim Court and how his dad had had surprised him by specifically mentioning the firefighters’ day and how much he’d liked it.
Resident Ambassador, Jean, rounded off the morning with a spontaneous and touching speech, telling the firefighters “It’s lovely to see you all here today – every one of you. We couldn’t live without your service. You are very loved – we appreciate what you do”.
A memorable day all round and a lovely way for Blenheim Court residents to stay connected with the community, enjoying valuable interaction with visitors to the home as well as showing gratitude and appreciation to their local firefighters.
Discover Blenheim Court Care Home
Blenheim Court provides residential, nursing and dementia care on a permanent or short stay basis. The home offers a range of facilities and plenty of areas for entertainment or relaxation, including lounges with beautiful views over the South Downs. There is also a regular programme of activities which feature on our Facebook page www.facebook.com/blenheimcourt - or please do call our friendly team on 0808 223 5537 to arrange a viewing.
If you would like to learn more about the types of care and services available from Caring Homes, please visit our website page. Please don’t hesitate to get in touch if you have any questions or would like to learn more.
