"The richest, most surprising stories from care home residents often appear in those quiet, in-between moments - waiting for the kettle to boil, walking to the dining room, or peeling veg for shepherd’s pie. These golden snippets of lived experience can transform your activity planning, turning everyday conversations into meaningful, mind-stimulating sessions that celebrate residents as experts in their own stories."

Discover how to support social wellbeing in care homes with meaningful, everyday activities. This post explores small group ideas, purposeful connections, and practical tools for activity coordinators using the SPIES wellbeing model.

Let’s be honest: flying by the seat of your pants every day is exhausting. Planning ahead, using monthly themes, flexible activity templates, and person-centred tools (like those in the Activity Coordinators Toolbox™), helps you feel more organised and in control. That doesn’t mean you lose spontaneity, it means you’ve got the groundwork in place, so when inspiration strikes, you’re ready.

Reaching out to Lingfield Park Racecourse, Laurence was met with remarkable generosity. The racecourse, part of the Arena Racing Company group, offered ten complimentary tickets so Stephen could spend the day at the races with his family, friends, and fellow residents.

The language we use in care isn’t just admin. It shapes how people feel. If something looks vague, clinical, or confusing on a planner, residents may skip it - or worse, feel that it’s something being done to them rather than with them.

D o you ever feel stuck when planning activities or struggle to find inspiration? A dream board could be the perfect solution. Dream...

The finished jam jar displays can then be placed in their rooms or communal spaces, adding a touch of beauty and colour to their environment

Break free from age-based assumptions! Challenge conscious bias, adapt activities, and focus on what residents can do. Let's create more joy

On Friday, 6th September, Ruby Lodge Care Home in Thirsk celebrated its grand opening, with the Mayor of Thirsk, Councillor Andrew...

The shop windows are full of "Back to School" posters and reminders to buy school shoes and stationery ready for the September start...

Longer days and warmer weather make August perfect for outdoor activities. Organise picnics, garden parties, and nature walks...

As the nation came together to watch and celebrate the Coronation of King Charles III and Queen Camilla care home communities were...