Residents, families and members of the local community enjoyed a fun-filled afternoon at the annual summer fete hosted by Buckler’s Lodge care home in Crowthorne.
More than 100 guests attended, including the Mayor of the Borough of Bracknell Forest, Peter Frewer, and Reverend Rickey Simpson-Gray. Representatives from Thames Valley Police, the local fire brigade, Berkshire Freemasons and the Alzheimer’s Society met visitors and shared information about the support they provide throughout the community.
A working model steam locomotive and a display of railway memorabilia proved popular with guests. Live music from singer Collette Ashby, alongside traditional fete games, a tombola, raffle, stalls and refreshments, created a lively atmosphere as residents, families and visitors spent time together in the home’s beautifully decorated garden.
During the event, 81-year-old resident Richard Eldon, a former biochemist with a PhD in Molecular Science, joined Family Liaison Manager Kim Mears at the Get Care Wise stall. He chatted with visitors, answered questions about life at the home and shared his own experiences of living in a care home.
Richard said:
“What I enjoy most about living here is feeling safe, being well looked after and having the comfort of my own room. It’s also important that there are activities every day, and a schedule so we know what to expect. I’d encourage anyone thinking about care to visit a home beforehand if they can. I came to look around Buckler’s Lodge with my son before I moved in, and seeing it for myself gave me the confidence that it was the right place for me.”
Juliet Gallop, Home Manager at Buckler’s Lodge, a leading not-for-profit care home in Bracknell Forest run by the charity Greensleeves Care, said:
“Our summer fete was a wonderful opportunity to bring everyone together for a day of fun. We were delighted to welcome back the Mayor, local organisations and community partners, whose support helped make the afternoon such a success.
“Richard was a fantastic ambassador for the event and really enjoyed talking to visitors and sharing his own experiences. Hearing first-hand from someone who lives in a care home is often the best way to understand what life is really like and to challenge some of the common assumptions people may have.
“Many people don’t start thinking about care until a crisis forces them to, and our research found that many wished they had received more information and support when navigating care decisions. Events like this give people the chance to ask questions, look around and have conversations in a relaxed setting. They also encourage families to explore their options before care is needed, which can make future decisions feel far less daunting.”
Free Get Care Wise guides and practical information about choosing and funding care are available on our Get Care Wise hub page.