Greetings one and all!

It’s been a while since the last newsletter was published, in fact November 2010 reported on the programme of events which were to take place over the Christmas period and all residents had a lovely time and we trust that all readers had a good Christmas and indeed, a very happy Easter. We are pleased to tell you that our fundraising event on December 11th, raised £500 for the Christopher Clarke Cancer Research Fund. Thanks to all concerned.

Now on to recent events!!

Residents were able to enjoy the memorable day by watching the event on a giant 62” screen. The sumptuous Royal Wedding Buffet included Bucks Fizz and Sherry, followed by Hors d’oeuvres, luxury sandwiches, hot food and desserts. There was a real party atmosphere and we all wish the Royal couple a lifetime of happiness.

We are pleased to announce that we have been awarded a grant from the Social Care Institute for Excellence to spend on new technology. A new lap top will enable residents to receive photos, Skype and keep in touch with people living in New Zealand, Australia and America and of course, nearer to home as well. The projector and 62” screen were both purchased thanks to the grant, and residents will now be able to look forward to other events being broadcast on the big screen for example – coming soon....Race Night!! Please see the notice board for details.

Residents joined in the fun on St Patrick’s Day when Guinness was served, Irish music was played and the everyone had a good old sing along.

On 3rd February, we celebrated the Chinese New Year with a feast of spring rolls, prawn crackers with sweet chilli sauce and other goodies themed to the occasion.

As well as the good old regulars such as Betsie’s Chairobic sessions, sing a longs, treats day and general knowledge, residents can also enjoy the talking library and music in the gold lounge on Saturdays and now that the weather is getting warmer, rides out in the country with a stop for coffee. Residents have also recently enjoyed going out for a pub lunch to the Shovels in St Annes, We now have a new “Pat” dog - standard poodle by the name of "Blue".

Robert is starting to prepare for Lytham in Bloom with the aim being to win the Gold award in the Care Homes category, equalling last year’s success. We are hoping to enter at least one more category this year.

Residents are finding the new lift much easier to use, and of course it now takes less time to get to the top floor!

The payphone has been moved to the front hall to offer a more private area for residents to make and receive calls. This has been actioned in response to a comment received.

We are pleased to welcome Kelly Race our new weekend carer.  Kelly is at university during the week studying nursing.

4  members of staff have now qualified as follows:
John Daggett – NVQ 2 – Care
Sue Leach and Julie Small – NVQ 3 – Care
Deborah Hardman – NVQ 4 – Leadership and Management

Congratulations to all 4 and we look forward to reporting on another batch of achievements in the next newsletter.

With best wishes to you all!

Hilary and Robert