Happy New Year everyone! 2023 was a remarkable year, full of joy, laughter and love, here at Crouched Friars. The year was marked with many milestones – from residents fulfilling their lifelong dreams, celebrating special moments with friends and family, and making incredible memories.
Dignity Action Day dreams come true
In 2023, we started our Dignity Action Day promise. Our staff members were dedicated to helping residents fulfil their lifelong wishes – and what a year it was! Bernie took to the skies for the first time, and later also got her first tattoo at age 74.
Sylvia met her idol, Sir Tom Jones, and even got to watch him perform live in concert.
Russell lived his dream of visiting the Festival of Speed and many other residents enjoyed simple pleasures like being treated to their favourite meals and learning to jive.
Five generations under one roof
There was barely a dry eye in the house when, earlier this year, our resident Rene’s family brought Maisie, the newest member of their family, to visit. It was a special day for Rene as she held her great great niece for the first time. The family also took a ‘five generations’ photo in our garden which we’re sure they’ll cherish forever.
Welcoming new life
This year, four of our amazing staff members, Mahima, Shelley, Shannon, and Fayi, welcomed their babies into this world. We threw baby showers for the then soon-to-be mums, complete with decorations, gifts, and lots of love and best wishes. Later this year, one of the babies visited us too and stole everyone’s hearts!
Crouched Friars’ Got Talent
We held the first ever Crouched Friars’ Got Talent this summer and it was a roaring success. Our staff and residents took part in a fierce competition and the Spice Girls, impersonated by our talented staff members, won! We’re looking forward to continuing this tradition in the years to come.
Summer fun in the sun
Summer 2023 was all about soaking up the sunshine and making memories. Our trip to Jimmy’s Farm was a highlight, with residents spending time with adorable animals and enjoying a delicious meal at the beautiful farm. Our annual summer BBQ was a great success, bringing friends and family together for a day of food, fun, and laughter.
A year of celebrations
From many birthdays, including resident Bill’s impressive 100th, to festive holidays, there was always a reason to raise a glass at Crouched Friars in 2023. We had quite a special Valentine’s Day lunch, showed our appreciation for all the lovely women in our home with flowers on International Women’s Day, went all out for Halloween with our team’s spooktacular costumes and decorations, and spread the Christmas cheer with carols, mince pies, and Christmas jumpers.
Visits from our furry friends always managed to bring a smile on our faces. Music filled the air, and our creativity took a leap with regular arts and crafts sessions. We looked forward to trips to the pub and our pamper sessions.
2023 was a truly special year at Crouched Friars, and we owe it all to our amazing team. Our dedicated staff went above and beyond to make our home a warm and welcoming place for residents and their families.
A special thank you to our chefs, who made delicious and nutritious meals for us throughout the year. And, of course, we wouldn’t be here without the love and support of our residents’ families and friends.
Here’s to a wonderful 2024! We can’t wait to see what the new year has in store for us at Crouched Friars.