Two decades of dedicated community care have been celebrated at a Dorset care home’s ‘bubbly’ anniversary garden party.
Residents, families, friends and team members at Colten Care’s Amberwood House in Ferndown staged a lively afternoon in the sun to mark the milestone occasion.
Ferndown Mayor and town councillor Lawrence Wilson was among more than 60 guests taking in displays and games led by Lisa Davies of Squidge and Pop, a bubble workshop and entertainment provider.
The Mayor said: “It was a pleasure to meet and chat with the staff, and it was clear that the residents were having a wonderful time too. It made for a thoroughly enjoyable couple of hours.”
His comments were echoed by Lisa who said: “What a wonderful family atmosphere the home and event had.”
As well as the bubbles, the party featured an open-air lunch and stalls selling a range of gift ideas.
Resident Sheila Shire said: “The home came alive. It was a great party, a great atmosphere.”
Sheila’s comments were echoed by Home Manager Kerry Mason, who said: “The celebration was an ideal opportunity to showcase the warm, family atmosphere at Amberwood House and the dedication of our team since we welcomed our very first residents back in the summer of 2006.”
Around £500 was raised at the party for Amberwood House residents’ charity of the year, Ferndown Community Support.
As well as cash donations, residents, families and staff at the home have recently been helping the charity through a hands-on craft project. It involved knitting woollen squares together to make 32 adult blankets, plus children’s and baby versions, for local families helped by Ferndown Community Support who are in need of comfort.
Also among their craft activities, residents helped to make floral displays ready for show at the anniversary party.
Amberwood House is one of seven Colten Care homes rated Outstanding by care sector regulator the Care Quality Commission.
