KnitandKnatter

Check out our September Social Media posts

Movie Magic at Shipston Lodge! šŸŽ„šŸæ

Our residents absolutely love gathering in our very own cinema to watch great movies!

It’s a special treat to enjoy the big screen experience right here at home, complete with cozy seats and lots of fun.

Let the movie magic begin! šŸ˜ŠšŸŽ¬

Cheers from the Jolly Trolley! šŸšŽšŸ¹

Our residents had a wonderful time enjoying refreshing drinks from the Jolly Trolley today!

It’s always a delight when the trolley rolls around, bringing smiles and a bit of joy to everyone.

Here’s to more happy moments and cheers all around! 😊🄤

Knit & Natter Magic at Shipston Lodge! šŸ§¶šŸŽ„

Every other Thursday, our community Knit & Natter group joins our residents, and the talent here is truly amazing!

One of our knitters has even created a Christmas tree made entirely of hand-knitted bobble hats, which will be donated to a homeless charity this Christmas.

🌟 Fun with our Seated Exercise Session! 🌟

Our residents had a wonderful time during today’s seated exercise session! šŸ’ŖšŸŖ‘

They love staying active, and seated exercise has become a firm favourite among our community.

It’s the perfect way to keep moving, stay healthy, and enjoy each other’s company. šŸ§˜ā€ā™‚ļøāœØ

šŸ’Ŗ Staying Active for Body and Mind! 🧠

Keeping active isn’t just good for the body—it’s great for the mind too! 🌟

Our residents enjoy regular movement activities that boost both physical and mental health.

Let’s keep moving and keep smiling! šŸ˜ŠšŸ§˜ā€ā™€ļø

šŸ™ A Beautiful Church Service at Shipston Lodge ā›Ŗļø

This week, we held another lovely church service, a cherished tradition among our residents.

It’s always a time of connection, peace, and shared joy that brings so much comfort to our community. šŸ’–

šŸŽ¶ Strolling Through Memories šŸŽ¶

We had the pleasure of hosting Nick from Down Memory Lane this week!

His selfless dedication to our residents brings so much joy, sparking fond memories and filling our home with love and laughter.

A heartfelt thanks to Nick for sharing his time and making this week extra special! šŸ’–āœØ

🧶 Knit & Natter Time at Shipston Lodge! ā˜•ļø

Our lovely residents and members of the community came together for another wonderful Knit & Natter session!

Plenty of knitting, tea, and of course, great conversation.

There’s nothing like a little crafting and good company to brighten the day. šŸ§¶ā˜•šŸ’¬

🧩 Puzzle Fun in Our Memory Care Community! šŸŽØ

Our residents were absolutely thrilled with their new jigsaw puzzles and paint-with-water art sets!

It was heartwarming to see everyone working together on the puzzles, enjoying the sense of accomplishment and teamwork.

šŸŽ¶ Strolling Through Memories šŸŽ¶

We had the pleasure of hosting Nick from Down Memory Lane this week!

His selfless dedication to our residents brings so much joy, sparking fond memories and filling our home with love and laughter.

A heartfelt thanks to Nick for sharing his time and making this week extra special! šŸ’–āœØ

šŸŽ‰ Celebrating 104 Years of Joan! šŸŽ‚āœØ

Our oldest resident, Joan, turned an amazing 104 recently!

She had a delightful day surrounded by friends, family, and of course, a fabulous birthday cake! šŸŽ‚šŸ’–

We’re so grateful to be part of her incredible milestone. Here’s to many more happy moments! 🄳


šŸ‘¶
Welcome Baby Jonathan! 🌟

A huge congratulations to our amazing staff members, Sunu and Jobin, on the birth of their beautiful son, Jonathan! šŸ’™

We’re thrilled for their growing family and can’t wait to meet little Jonathan again! šŸ‘¶šŸ’•

šŸ”„ A Heartfelt End of Summer BBQ! šŸ”šŸŒž

Thanks to a very kind donation from a recently bereaved family, we enjoyed a fabulous end of summer BBQ to honour their parents and the care they received here.

Stephen was our BBQ king for the evening, and a fantastic time was had by all! ā¤ļøāœØ


🌟 Meet Khris – Our New Ray of Sunshine! 🌈

We’re thrilled to introduce Khris, who will be working in both activities and care.

Her vibrant personality radiates happiness, and we know she’ll be a wonderful asset in both departments!

šŸŽ‰šŸŒŸ Welcome to the team, Khris!


Private Nursing

Private Nursing Homes: The Human Touch

Customised care is one of the distinguishing features of private nursing homes. They are frequently family-run, with a firm commitment to developing a caring and professional environment that is warm, welcoming, and actually home-like, not institutional.

Emphasis is put on quality care that is responsive to residents' particular needs and preferences. In private nursing homes, residents are not considered patients but individuals with unique histories, preferences, and needs.

Each person's care plan is tailor-made, thereby guaranteeing comprehensive attention to their physical, emotional, and social needs.

This personalised approach improves the quality of care and provides the residents with a better quality of life.

High-Quality Facilities and Amenities

A second significant advantage of private nursing homes is the well-equipped, standard, and qualitative facilities and amenities. Most private homes pride themselves on state-of-the-art facilities designed to offer comfort and convenience. Residents can have an exciting stay by enjoying all types of activities and services related to their well-being.

The environment in private nursing homes ranges from landscaped gardens that allow residents to have a peaceful walk to lounges and cafƩs, providing social spaces for interaction designed to be stimulating and relaxing. A cinema room and hairdressing salon for a bit of pampering can even be included in some homes.

These amenities are not merely about luxury; they play a significant role in maintaining the dignity and self-esteem of the residents.

Food quality is another crucial dimension of life in a private nursing home.

Professional, in-house chefs often prepare meals with fresh and local ingredients, and residents can be involved in planning menus, thus ensuring their appetising, nutritional, and personal dietary needs.

A Commitment to Compassionate Care

The distinguishing feature of private nursing homes is that compassionate care lies at their core. Equally, the staff within these homes are well qualified, experienced in the field, and committed to caring with kindness and understanding.

This creates a fundamental ethos in creating an environment where residents feel safe, respected, and valued.

This means that nursing care is provided at all times, so residents of these homes can always obtain whatever medical assistance they need.

Whether it's managing complex medical conditions or helping with daily living activities, staff in private nursing homes are committed to supporting the health and well-being of its residents.

Furthermore, private-owned nursing homes generally provide specialised care for persons with conditions such as dementia. The staff is adequately trained and oriented to be aware of the predicaments experienced by those living with dementia as they develop care plans to support the residents in a manner that maximises their independence under safe and comfortable conditions.

Pricing that Is Transparent and All-Inclusive

One issue that concerns families considering care options is the cost. The primary way that we alleviate this concern is through all-inclusive pricing and price transparency.

It lets families rest easy knowing there won't be hidden fees or surprise charges. In an all-inclusive, private nursing home, the one weekly fee covers everything from nursing care to accommodation, meals, activities, and added extras like physiotherapy and chiropody.

So this ensures budgeting simplicity and gives residents and their families plenty of time for much more important activities: having fun with each other.

A Vibrant Community Life

Life at a private nursing home should be the farthest thing from boring. In most cases, they are lively communities, allowing participation in numerous activities, from arts and crafts to exercise classes and social outings. Keeping residents engaged and active is pivotal to one's well-being; hence, emphasis is placed on staying occupied. A sense of community within private nursing homes also extends to families.

Most homes encourage regular visits and offer facilities where families can spend quality time together, whether over a meal in a private dining room or on a leisurely walk in the gardens.

This focus on family involvement helps maintain important bonds and ensures residents feel connected to their loved ones.

Conclusion

The selection of a private nursing home is crucial and life-transforming for your family member.

Shipston Lodge offer features such as personalised care, high amenities, highly compassionate staff, and open pricing in an environment where it is safe for the resident to live with dignity, comfort, and joy. For families, the peace of mind that their loved one is in a caring, supportive, and enriching environment is priceless.

Shipston Lodge is a luxury care nursing home in Shipston-on-Stour that provides residential, respite and specialised dementia care. It is rated five stars consistently for its high standards of care and quality of facilities.

 


Dementia Care

Understanding Dementia Care in Nursing Homes

The high prevalence of dementia as we get older is a symptom of the significance that understanding nursing care homes' position and work has in providing the specialised care needed for individuals with this condition.

Dementia is not a specific disease but is a general descriptor for the progressive decline in memory, thinking, and social skills severe enough to interfere with daily life. There are many causes of progressive dementia, but Alzheimer's disease is the most common one.

The Need for Specialised Dementia Care

Taking care of people with dementia requires more than professional skills; it requires compassion, patience, and understanding of an individual's needs.

Since dementia affects an individual's cognitive functions, such patients have problems with communication, reasoning, and memory and feel confused, lost, and vulnerable. In such a case, a nursing care home for dementia may be necessary for them.

Nursing care homes are increasingly seen as vital in providing a well-organised environment for people with dementia.

With staff trained to understand and handle the complexities of dementia care, this type of service maintains quality of life while meeting various challenges posed by dementia.

Person-Centred Care in Dementia Nursing Homes

Person-centred care is central to the philosophy of caring for those with dementia in a nursing home environment.

This approach regards the person's uniqueness of experience, preference, and need—beyond the symptoms of a health condition. At the heart of this very clinical approach lies the belief that people with dementia can still live lives that have meaning and fulfilment when they have the proper support.

Nursing homes provide individualised dementia care to the resident. Some involve developing personalised care plans and considering any interests, hobbies, or preferences the resident might have.

Such care homes use meaningful activities that are liked and give the residents pleasure to ensure that there is always identity and worth.

A Healthy and Safe Environment

Safety is of great concern in dementia care. Nursing homes are designed considering the safety of their residents; hence, features that can help reduce the chances of accidents or confusion may include easy navigation by the residents, indoor landscapes that prevent residents from going outside or getting lost, and dementia-friendly signage with symbols and pictures that aid comprehension.

Further, in most care homes, much care is given to the design of the physical environment to reduce stress and anxiety. Most homes use calm dƩcor, natural lighting, and gardens to access while remaining outside safely. These things help in improving well-being by creating an amicable and familiar environment.

The Role of Staff in Dementia Care

The staff within these homes is central to good practice in dementia care. They are trained in all aspects of dementia, not only medical but psychological, and in delivering emotional support that is integral for residents. Compassionate and patient, they work at establishing trust with residents to help ease the fear and confusion that can be experienced by those living with dementia.

Social Interaction and Activities

Social interaction is essential for the mental health and well-being of people with dementia. Often, these nursing care homes have a list of activities to help maintain cognitive function and encourage social contact, including music therapy, reminiscence, arts and crafts, and exercise.

Group activities are especially beneficial because residents can relate to one another and feel less isolated and lonely. Moreover, the activities are structured many times around the cognitive ability of the participants, ensuring that each person can participate at their level.

Family Involvement

Family involvement is another central area in which dementia care is based. Nursing homes encourage relatives to participate in the care of their loved ones in every possible way.

It may maintain a sense of continuity and emotional connection for the resident. It includes active participation in regular family visits, involvement in care planning, and activities that will allow families to continue playing a significant role in the life of the loved one.

In conclusion, nursing care homes have become very supportive of individuals with dementia; they offer security, structure, and a compassionate environment within the right setting.

Shipston Lodge is a luxury care nursing home in Shipston-on-Stour that provides residential, respite and specialised dementia care. It is rated five stars consistently for its high standards of care and quality of facilities.

 


Finding TheRight Nursing Home

Finding the Right Nursing Home Near You

Finding the right nursing home near you can be a crucial decision for you or your loved one's well-being. It's about more than just location; it ensures quality care and a supportive environment.

When searching for care and nursing homes near you, consider the benefits of proximity. Being close to family and friends allows regular visits, providing emotional support and a sense of belonging. It also makes it easier to stay connected with the community.

However, proximity is one of many factors to consider. The services and amenities offered by nursing homes play a vital role in ensuring residents' comfort and quality of life. Assess the range of services, from essential assistance with daily activities to specialised medical care, to find the right fit.

Quality of care is paramount. Look for nursing homes with a solid reputation. Online reviews, recommendations from healthcare professionals, and in-person visits can provide valuable insights into the care provided.

The qualifications and training of the staff are essential. A well-trained and compassionate team can make a significant difference in residents' quality of care.

Finally, personalised care plans are crucial. Ensure that the nursing home can accommodate specific medical or dietary needs. A tailored care plan addresses individual requirements, ensuring a higher quality of life.

Shipston Lodge is a luxury care nursing home in Shipston-on-Stour that provides residential and respite care. It is rated five stars consistently for its high standards of care and quality of facilities.

Get in touch with us for a tour of Shipston Lodge and to discuss your specific needs.

 


The Benefits of Choosing a Luxury Care Home

The Benefits of Choosing a Luxury Care Home

When selecting the proper luxury care home for your loved one, it's essential to prioritise the quality and range of amenities that the care home provides.

The environment in which your loved one will spend their time is crucial to their overall well-being and happiness. This is why, at Shipston Lodge, we pride ourselves on being more than just a care facility—we are a luxury care home in Warwickshire that offers our residents a true sense of home.

A Higher Standard of Living

Choosing a luxury care home like Shipston Lodge means that your loved one will enjoy a significantly higher standard of living.

Our beautifully furnished rooms are designed with comfort and elegance, ensuring each resident feels at ease and at home. The ambience of our rooms reflects our commitment to creating a welcoming environment that promotes relaxation and peace.

In addition to the physical comforts, we offer gourmet dining options that cater to our residents' diverse tastes and dietary needs. Our experienced chefs prepare delicious, nutritious meals using fresh, high-quality ingredients.

Whether it's a special dietary requirement or a favourite dish, we ensure every meal is a delightful experience for our residents.

Engaging Activities and Social Interaction

We understand the importance of keeping our residents engaged and active at Shipston Lodge. Our wide range of activities is designed to cater to various interests and abilities, ensuring that there is something for everyone.

From arts and crafts to gardening, music sessions, and fitness classes, we provide opportunities for our residents to socialise, learn new skills, and stay mentally and physically active.

Our activity coordinators work closely with residents to tailor activities that match their preferences and abilities.

This personalised approach keeps residents entertained and promotes their overall well-being, making their stay at Shipston Lodge a fulfilling experience.

Exceptional Care and Medical Support

One key aspect that sets Shipston Lodge apart as a CQC care home is our commitment to providing top-notch medical care.

We understand that many of our residents have complex medical needs, and we are fully equipped to meet those needs in a comfortable and supportive setting.

Our highly trained staff, including nurses and care assistants, are dedicated to ensuring that each resident receives the care and attention they need. Our approach to care is holistic, focusing on physical health and emotional and mental well-being.

We offer various services, including regular health check-ups, medication management, and access to specialised therapies, all within the comfort of our home.Ā  This comprehensive care model gives families peace of mind, knowing that their loved ones are being looked after by a team of professionals who genuinely care about their well-being.

Peace of Mind for Families

Choosing Shipston Lodge means choosing peace of mind.

As one of the best care homes in Warwickshire, we are committed to providing an environment where residents can thrive and where families can rest assured that their loved ones are in safe, capable hands.Ā  Our all-inclusive approach means that everything from medical care to daily activities is covered, so there are no hidden costs or surprises.

Conclusion

At Shipston Lodge, we stand out among nursing homes in Warwickshire because of our unwavering commitment to excellence in care.Ā  We believe every resident deserves the highest quality of life and are dedicated to making that a reality.

By choosing Shipston Lodge, you are not just selecting a place for your loved one to live—you are choosing a home where they will be cared for, cherished, and valued every single day.

 


Shipston Lodge Social Posts

Check out our August Social Media posts

Refreshing Mind & Body with Seated Yoga! šŸ§˜ā€ā™€ļøšŸŒŸ

Our residents love their armchair exercises, especially the late morning seated yoga sessions with our amazing instructor, Hayley.

After each class, they feel physically and spiritually rejuvenated, making lunchtime even more delightful! 🌿😊

Bringing Smiles with Ronnie the PAT Therapy Dog! šŸ¾ā¤ļø

Every visit from Ronnie (Veronica), our beloved PAT therapy dog, and her owner Pete is a true highlight!

The joy and warmth that Ronnie brings to our residents are simply priceless.

PAT Therapy is a remarkable charity, training dogs to brighten the lives of the elderly, disabled, and those with special needs.

A Heartwarming Send-Off for Julie! šŸŽ¶šŸŒŸ

It was wonderful to see such a great turnout as our very own activity coordinator Julie entertained everyone before heading off on her summer holiday!

Our residents had a blast, and while we’ll miss Julie, they’re in great hands with Karen and Stephen, who have a fun-filled lineup of activities and outings planned over the coming weeks!

Happy 98th Birthday, Joy!Ā šŸŽ‰šŸŽ‚

We celebrate the incredible Joy as she turns 98!

Joy is a true inspiration, embodying grace, dignity, and unwavering strength. Born in the same year as Queen Elizabeth II, she shares those timeless qualities that make her so beloved by all.

We are honoured to celebrate this special milestone with her.

Please join us in wishing Joy a very Happy Birthday!Ā šŸŽˆšŸ’–

A Joyful Sing-Along at Esmere Gardens! šŸŽ¶āœØ

On Tuesday, we had the pleasure of visiting Esmere Gardens for a lively sing-along with the talented Lizzie on vocals and keyboard.

It was wonderful to see our two homes come together, enjoying each other’s company and creating joyful memories.

The ride out on the Shipston Link was an added treat! 🚐😊

Another Wonderful Knit & Natter! 🧶🌸

What a fantastic turnout for our community Knit & Natter!The creativity was in full bloom with a splendid display of flowers crafted by some truly talented hands. 🌺

If you’d like to join in the fun, get in touch for details for the next one. You don’t have to knit—just come for the company and the cake! šŸŽ‚

A Joyful Afternoon with Down Memory Lane! šŸŽ¶āœØ

We had an absolutely wonderful afternoon with Nick and friends from Down Memory Lane, a fantastic voluntary group from our community.

They brought so much happiness, joy, and cherished memories to our residents.

We’re grateful for their visit and the smiles they brought to our home! šŸ˜Šā¤ļø

Today was all about fun and competition as our residents enjoyed a lively game of armchair Boules!

The energy was high as everyone showcased their skills and competitive spirit, guided by our fantastic activity coordinator, Karen.

What a wonderful way to spend the morning! šŸŽ‰šŸŽ³

We had a delightful session led by Yvette from Cotswold Kiddley Divey!

Our residents had a blast with an array of instruments and props for a summer-themed musical adventure.Ā šŸŒžšŸŽ¶

Last week we teamed up with our sister Nursing Home Esmere Gardens for a wonderful trip to Cotswold Lavender Fields.

Our residents were captivated by the seemingly endless rows of lavender and the lively wildflower meadows.

Despite the heat, we were well-prepared with sun hats, parasols, sunscreen, refreshing cold drinks, and tasty choc ices.

We found a perfect shady spot to relax and take in the breathtaking views! šŸ’œšŸŒ¾


All Inclusive Care at Shipston Lodge

Why All Inclusive Care is Vital for You

Choosing the right care home for your loved one is a significant decision, and one of the most critical aspects to consider is the financial structure of the care being provided.

At Shipston Lodge, we believe in transparency and peace of mind, which is why we offer an all-inclusive care package.

This approach ensures that all necessary and potential extra costs are covered in one fixed payment, so there are no financial surprises later on.

The Benefits of All-Inclusive Care
One of the primary benefits of choosing an all-inclusive care home like Shipston Lodge is its financial predictability.

Many traditional care homes operate on a model where basic fees cover only the essentials, such as accommodation, meals, and some personal care.

However, families often find that additional services—like hairdressing, physiotherapy, certain activities, and even certain types of medical care—come with extra charges.

These unexpected costs can add up quickly, making it difficult to budget accurately and leading to potential affordability issues.

At Shipston Lodge, our all-inclusive care model eliminates this uncertainty. By bundling all the services your loved one might need into one fixed payment, we ensure that there are no hidden fees or unexpected costs.

This model not only makes it easier for families to budget, but it also provides peace of mind, knowing that your loved one’s care will continue uninterrupted, regardless of any additional needs that may arise.

Comprehensive Care with No Surprises
The all-inclusive package at Shipston Lodge covers a wide range of services designed to meet the holistic needs of our residents. This includes not only high-quality accommodation and meals but also access to our full suite of amenities and activities, such as:

  • Daily social activities and entertainment: Ensuring that residents have opportunities to engage, socialize, and stay mentally and physically active.
  • Hairdressing and grooming services: Residents can always look and feel their best without worrying about extra costs.
  • Physiotherapy and other specialist therapies are essential for maintaining mobility and overall health, and they are provided as part of our standard care.
  • Laundry and housekeeping services: To maintain a clean and comfortable living environment.
  • Medical care and support: Including regular check-ups, medication management, and any additional medical services that may be required.

By covering these and other services under one fixed cost, Shipston Lodge allows families to focus on what truly matters—their loved one’s well-being and happiness—rather than being burdened by financial concerns.

Peace of Mind for Families
We understand that the decision to move a loved one into a care home can be emotional and challenging. The last thing families need is the added stress of unexpected financial burdens.

Shipston Lodge’s all-inclusive care model is designed to reassure families that all their loved one’s needs will be met without compromise.

In conclusion, choosing an all-inclusive care home like Shipston Lodge is not just about convenience; it’s about ensuring that your loved one receives the highest standard of care without the worry of escalating costs.

Our commitment to transparency and comprehensive care makes Shipston Lodge the ideal choice for families seeking both quality and peace of mind.


The Importance of Respite Care at Shipston Lodge

At Shipston Lodge, we understand that caring for elderly loved ones is both rewarding and challenging. The demands of caregiving can be overwhelming, making it essential for families and caregivers to take a well-deserved break.

That's where respite care comes in—providing temporary relief and ensuring that both caregivers and their loved ones receive the care they need.

What Is Respite Care?
Respite care offers short-term, specialised care to give caregivers a much-needed break. We provide a comfortable and supportive environment where your loved ones can rest, recuperate, and enjoy our community.

Our dedicated team ensures that every resident receives personalised attention, allowing caregivers to step away knowing their loved ones are in expert hands.

Who Benefits from Respite Care?
Respite care benefits both caregivers and their loved ones. Caregivers often face significant emotional and physical stress, and taking a break is crucial for their well-being. Our respite care allows caregivers to recharge, attend to personal needs, or take a holiday, confident that their loved ones are receiving exceptional care in their absence.

For the elderly, respite care offers a refreshing change of environment. Our residents enjoy socialising, participating in activities, and exploring new experiences.Ā  This temporary stay can be stimulating and enjoyable, providing a welcome break from routine while maintaining high standards of care.

What Does Respite Care at Shipston Lodge Offer?
Our All-inclusive respite care services are designed to provide comprehensive support for your loved ones.

We offer 24-hour expert nursing care, delicious freshly prepared meals, and a variety of activities tailored to individual needs and interests. Our goal is to create a safe, comfortable, and engaging environment where residents feel cared for and valued.

In addition to general care, Shipston Lodge provides specialised services such as physiotherapy to aid mobility and recovery. Our residents also have the opportunity to participate in social activities, entertainment, and excursions, making their stay enjoyable and enriching.Ā  We aim to promote independence while ensuring that every resident's needs are met with the highest level of care.

Why Is Respite Care Important?
Respite care is essential not just for providing caregivers with relief, but also for offering peace of mind.

Knowing that your loved one is being cared for in a professional, nurturing environment allows caregivers to focus on their needs, whether taking a break, recovering from illness, or simply resting.

Conclusion

Respite care is a lifeline for many families and caregivers. It ensures that caregivers remain healthy and rejuvenated while their elderly loved ones receive the best care.

By choosing Shipston Lodge for respite care, you're choosing a community that values caregivers' well-being and residents' comfort and happiness.

 


Local Lions Club Event

We recently held a charity event for our Local Lions Club and have donated £5000.00 for the food bank.

view our Facebook for more information


Special Day

One of the really special days we celebrated in May was of course VE Day. Wartime memorabilia was on show throughout Shipston Lodge as we commemorated that momentous day 75 years ago when peace returned to Europe. We decorated our hallway with Union Jack bunting and created a museum-style feel. We had a WWII uniform and a few 1940s-style dresses. We also printed out World War Two pictures of the places where all of our residents lived and other images showing bomb-damaged sites such as the Bournville factory. Then we laminated the pictures and stuck them on the picture frames so our residents and staff could walk along and look at the displays. We covered our piano and garden lounge entrance with camouflage material, aeroplanes and bombs. Residents helped to make ration books by copying an original version and to add authenticity we stained them with coffee! Then inside the books we printed what rations adults would have had per day. Also included was the menu for our BBQ. Chef prepared homemade burgers, sausages and chicken skewers. He also created homemade coleslaw and fresh salad. We also had a treat for dessert with homemade trifle and rainbow cake. We sat out in the garden then proceeded to the dining area for our lunch, which was decorated with more Union Jack bunting, flags, paper napkins, plates and cups. We also organised a big board setting out all of the fascinating stories from our residents of the periods before and during the war. Because of the lockdown we couldn’t invite any entertainers in; undaunted, members of the Shipston Lodge team stepped up performed and then led sing-a-longs to wartime favourites. Some staff even dressed as Land girls and members of a bomber crew. Throughout the day we had the chance to look through two albums showing photos and stories of our residents’ wartime experience. It was a truly wonderful day. Among the many lovely comments from residents was one from Eileen who said it was ā€˜such a wonderful day with singing,’ and Selina said: ā€œIt was excellent, it was organised well.ā€ For Pam, ā€˜it brought back great memories,’ and Johnny said, ā€œIt was great, I loved it.ā€ And Alan was so kind: ā€œIt was such a wonderful day. What you have all put in as planned for the day was a merit to you all. I wanted to salute all of you for making this day brilliant for us.ā€