Meaningful care home activities: From armchair racing to the Parade Ring

Another winning ticket for Stephen

A simple conversation that resulted in a birthday to remember for Stephen.

Creating meaningful care home activities doesn’t always require a big budget - sometimes it starts with simply listening.

It started as a simple, heartfelt conversation while watching the Ascot coverage, just one of those ordinary chats that happens in a care home lounge. But for Stephen, a resident at Barnes Lodge Care Home in Tonbridge and a former showjumper, it led to something extraordinary, a personalised care home activity he’d never forget.

Stephen’s love of horses and racing became clear during the conversation, and with his 70th birthday fast approaching, staff knew this was a chance to create something truly special.

Laurence Amstad, Family Liaison Manager at the home, decided to act on it, and the result was a day full of connection, celebration, and unforgettable moments.

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 group attended on Tuesday 8th July, with Stephen joined by his brother Kevin and sister-in-law Tina. But it wasn’t just a lovely afternoon out, it became something truly meaningful.

In a surprise twist, Stephen was invited into the parade ring to judge the “Best Turned Out Horse” in the fourth race. Calm and confident in his element, he chose horse number five, awarding a special bonus prize to the owner. His moment in the spotlight was even broadcast on Sky Sports Racing.

Later, he returned to the parade ring to present the winner’s trophy, an experience that clearly meant the world to him. The winning owner then invited Stephen and his guests into the exclusive owners' box to celebrate with champagne another example of the many thoughtful touches throughout the day.

As the afternoon continued with a few more wins than losses, the group toasted the occasion with Pimm’s and lemonade for the ladies, and pale ales for the gents - a fitting end to a beautiful day.

Laurence reflected, “It was a truly memorable experience for Stephen and his family. It’s moments like these that remind us why we do what we do.”

Care home activity coordinators up and down the country strive to create these memory-making experiences, whether through everyday conversations or by building relationships with local venues and communities.

This particular outing serves as a heartening reminder of what can happen when someone takes the time to listen and act.

The result - meaningful care home activities.

Do you have a story to share with us? Contact Caroline: info@brightcopperkettles.co.uk