Trip to Cheltenham Racecourse for Tea

The residents at Whittington House in Cheltenham piloted an afternoon tea and sensory activities for The Riding for the Disabled at Cheltenham Racecourse. The residents were very excited to be participating in this new venture. On arrival they were presented with a beautiful afternoon tea, the residents thoroughly enjoyed the refreshments and the setting while a horse riding class was in progress. To help with this project ‘Matt’ from Therapy Dogs Nationwide and ‘Skye’ from PAT joined us all.After an introduction from Claire Jenkins and the afternoon tea they made their way outside to the sensory garden where they were introduced to ‘Bobby’ one of the horses, who was assigned to to the residents for the afternoon together with his trainer.The residents split into two groups, one to look around the sensory garden and beach area and the other to lead Bobby through different terrains. In the garden the residents were able to touch and smell the various herbs which were cleverly planted in painted old car tyres, there were also old CD’s which were put to good use in the shape of a seahorse, which was mounted on a wall. The second group were able to lead Bobby through water and other different textures around the garden.The residents and their families had a lovely time saying “Absolutely beautiful, something different to do and nice to get out in different surroundings.” A family member remarked that is was very therapeutic and an excellent afternoon.”Whittington House Nursing Home in Cheltenham, Gloucestershire is a modern, purpose-built home and provides residential, nursing and specialist dementia care for up to 66 people.If you would like to find out more about life at Whittington House, or would like to speak to a member of our team, please contact us on 0808 223 5396 or [email protected].