Wellbeing plays a big part in the person-centred approach to care at Horsell Lodge Care Home, part of the Caring Homes Group in Woking and no two days are ever the same for the Wellbeing team. We join Wellbeing Lead, Rachel Saunders, to see what a typically eventful day looks like.
Horsell Lodge is home to more than 70 residents with nursing, dementia and residential needs. The home’s wellbeing programme is shaped by the likes and wishes of residents, ensuring there is something for everyone. What makes Rachel’s role so special is the way she balances one-to-one moments with opportunities that bring the whole home together.
Her day always begins with coffee and a catch-up with the rest of the team – Olivia, Leila, Victoria and Anna. Together they share updates about residents, plan individual sessions and divide up the day’s activities. It’s a vital time for communication and coordination, especially as different activities often take place simultaneously across the home. While Rachel joins the daily management meeting with Home Manager Julie, the rest of her team are already busy leading Music and Movement sessions – armchair exercises with breathing and meditation that residents adore, and insist on having as a regular feature.
Late morning brings something special. A section of Gordon’s School Pipes and Drums arrives to perform as part of the school’s Make a Difference Day. Residents are thrilled as student Han Mansek explains the history of the band’s tartan and uniform before showing them the bagpipes and drums. Rachel makes sure that two residents who couldn’t attend the performance don’t miss out, escorting Han to visit them personally. Both are Scottish and one is visibly moved, flooded with memories of home.
After lunch, it’s time for furry friends. Rachel welcomes Debby from Browells Wood Pet Therapy, who arrives armed with kittens, puppies, rabbits, guinea pigs and even a chicken. Residents light up as they stroke and cuddle the animals, especially those who once lived on farms or had beloved pets. Rachel ensures that animal lovers who cannot leave their rooms still get visits from the furry guests, knowing just how much comfort it brings.
The afternoon winds down with the sound of the high tea trolley bell. Laden with cakes and sweet treats, it makes its way around every lounge and room, accompanied by Rachel and her team. High tea is a weekly ritual that always sparks smiles, with families and visitors often joining in too. By evening, there’s still more to look forward to, with activities such as mindful meditation, arts and crafts or the ever-popular Tuesday night pub quiz.
What ties it all together is Rachel’s commitment to listening. Residents’ meetings are held every month, ensuring their voices shape the programme. Families are kept involved too, and Horsell Lodge’s strong community links provide a constant stream of ideas and connections. Every Friday, Rachel focuses on forward planning, creating detailed schedules that are hand-delivered to residents, shared with families and pinned on noticeboards, ensuring everyone feels part of what’s ahead.
Reflecting on her work, Rachel says: “My role is very hands on and every day is different. It’s challenging but rewarding and I have a great team who help deliver a wide range of activities which contribute to the lively and happy atmosphere in the home. Bringing smiles to our residents’ faces is an absolute pleasure.”
At Horsell Lodge, wellbeing is more than a programme – it’s a way of life, made real every day by Rachel and her dedicated team.
