A resident from a Maidstone care home has had a ‘dream come true’ after a visit from a Shire horse – bringing back memories of working on a farm with the same breed growing up.
Ray from Loose Valley Care Home, part of the Nellsar Care Homes group, was treated to a visit from Jim, a charming Shire horse, with the help of Wishing Hearts Charity. The visit reignited Ray’s passion and brought back fond memories from his younger years of taking Shire horses to shows, polishing their tack, and giving cart rides to children and adults.
Wishing Hearts is a charity for older people in Maidstone aiming to combat loneliness and social isolation in the older generation, and to provide them with lasting memories. Through the support of the charity’s founder, Abby Wincel, who also works as the Recreation and Well-Being Lead at Nellsar’s Lulworth House Residential Care Home, Ray’s wish was made possible.
Ray has a hard-working background, having managed a farm in Marden. He looked after three Shire horses named Dolly, Julia, and Flo, who he adored despite their occasional stubbornness! Two of the horses were even featured in the local news when they fell through some ice and had to be rescued by the fire brigade.
Speaking of the visit, Viv Stead, Recreation and Well-Being Manager at Nellsar, said: “We can’t thank Abby enough for her hard work and dedication in making this experience happen. Seeing how much Ray loved meeting Jim meant so much – such a beautiful memory for him to cherish. We just love that we are able to do things like this for our lovely residents.”
Ray made sure to stand up from his wheelchair to greet Jim with a polo. The visit also allowed other residents the chance to say hello to Jim, which they thoroughly enjoyed.
Nellsar continues to set a benchmark for excellence in care, with a focus on activities and experiences that promote engagement, happiness, and a sense of community among residents and team members.
For more information on Nellsar, please visit: https://www.nellsar.com/.
For more information on the Wishing Hearts Charity, visit https://www.wishinghearts.co.uk/.
