An Official Visit Brings Residents Closer To The Community In St Albans
Mayor Anthony Rowlands and Mayoress Annie Stevenson received a warm welcome when they visited The Orchard Nursing Home in St Albans last month.
The purpose of their visit was to meet the residents, get a feel for day-to-day life at The Orchard, and talk about ways of improving connections within the community as whole – something that’s a priority at Caring Homes, where interaction with the wider world offers an important extra dimension to the lives of our residents.
Reminiscing with the Young at Heart Club
Mayor Rowlands and Mayoress Stevenson chatted to residents who included Sheila, a long-time family friend. The atmosphere was friendly and lively as the residents chatted, played games, and participated in activities, including the ‘Young at Heart Club’. Local volunteer, Brian, has been visiting The Orchard every week for the past five years and in this session, he introduced dolls, toys and figures from much-loved television and radio programmes to encourage reminiscence. (Can you spot Kermit, Rupert Bear, a Clanger, Peter Rabbit, and Dougal amongst other well-known characters on the table)? Residents of different ages identified figures that stirred memories for them, and these were shared in a happy session.
Brian commented, "It was lovely to have a visit from the Mayor and Lady Mayoress of St Albans. I explained that we reminisce about different subjects each week and they told me they’d enjoyed finding out about the Young at Heart Club”.
A Brainstorm with the Mayor and Mayoress Demonstrates Shared Goals
After a tour of the home, led by The Orchard’s Community Relations Manager, Sharon and Wellbeing Lead, Vicky, the group gathered to discuss potential projects and initiatives that could further integrate The Orchard into the St Albans community. Sharon explained, “We’d like to build strong ties with the community so residents can feel connected and engaged, and in return, we’re keen to explore ways we can contribute to St Albans."
Mayor Rowlands agreed that making two-way connections was important and Mayoress Stevenson added, "A thriving community is one where every member, regardless of age or background, feels valued and included.” She then proposed that the group brainstormed ideas on how The Orchard could play a more active role. This led to a fruitful discussion, where ideas ranged from hosting community events at The Orchard, to involving residents in local volunteer initiatives and collaborating with schools to tap into various intergenerational programmes.
Before leaving, Mayor Rowlands thanked Sharon and told her how much he appreciated The Orchard’s warm reception, then shared his vision with the team: "Together, we can strengthen the bonds that make St Albans such a special place. Let's work hand in hand to create a more interconnected and supportive community for all."
The Orchard Nursing Home in St Albans
The Orchard Nursing Home, a modern and comfortable care home based in St Albans is beautifully furnished and offers residential, nursing and dementia care. Our location makes us convenient for family and friends who are visiting the home, and we’re perfectly located for a host of different outings across Hertfordshire.
For more information about The Orchard Nursing Home, please visit our dedicated page for more information. You can also find information on our other care homes by exploring our site. Please don’t hesitate to get in touch to find out more.
