Kelly brings joy through animal therapy
In the heart of Madeira Lodge Care Home in New Romney, something special is happening. It’s not just the warm smiles of residents or the sound of laughter echoing through the halls—it’s the clucking, hopping, and purring of some very special residents who have made this care home their own. And behind this delightful transformation? None other than Care Home Manager, Kelly Parker, whose boundless creativity and compassion have turned Madeira Lodge into a haven of love, laughter, and a little bit of farmyard magic.
When Kelly saw how much joy animals brought to the residents, she didn’t just arrange a few therapy pet visits—she went all in. Enter Madeira Lodge’s very own petting farm! A place where residents can cuddle rabbits, collect eggs from the home’s very own chickens, and even befriend the resident cat, who rules the roost with a mix of sass and affection.
But this isn’t just about having cute animals around. There’s real science behind the magic. Studies show that spending time with animals can lower stress, reduce loneliness, and bring back happy memories. And at Madeira Lodge, the impact has been nothing short of extraordinary. Residents light up when they stroke a bunny’s soft fur or chat to the cheeky chickens. The simple presence of these furry and feathered friends sparks conversations, laughter, and a sense of purpose.
Kelly’s petting farm isn’t just good for the soul—it’s good for the planet too! Always thinking one step ahead, she’s found a way to make Madeira Lodge more eco-friendly by feeding food scraps to the chickens, reducing waste while keeping the feathery residents well-fed and happy. It’s a win-win: sustainable living, happy animals, and residents who love being part of something bigger
And it’s not just animals that Kelly has introduced to make life at Madeira Lodge vibrant. She’s also taken residents on a global adventure—without ever leaving the dining room! Through her “Gourmet Around the World” experience, residents have explored the flavors of Spain, Jamaica, America, and the UK, bringing back memories and sparking new conversations over delicious meals. Because nothing brings people together like good food and great company!
Kelly’s commitment to joy doesn’t stop at the farmyard gates. Each year, she throws a spectacular charity event—last year’s Carnival Day was a roaring success, with the local community, dignitaries, and even the press joining in the fun. The best part? Over £700 was raised for the Care Workers’ Charity, proving that when you bring people together for a good cause, the impact can be huge.
But Kelly’s dedication to her residents goes beyond fun and games. She recently organised an important health awareness session, bringing in a cancer specialist to talk about prostate cancer in a safe and supportive environment. It’s this perfect blend of fun, care, and education that makes Madeira Lodge stand out.
From creating a petting farm to hosting unforgettable events and championing sustainability, Kelly Parker is redefining what care homes can be. Her passion, innovation, and deep love for the people she supports have turned Madeira Lodge into more than just a place to live—it’s a place to thrive.
With paws, feathers, and a whole lot of heart, Kelly is proving that sometimes, the best medicine is a wagging tail, a soft cluck, or a fluffy hug. And at Madeira Lodge, the magic of animal therapy is making every day brighter, one paw print at a time.
