Bistro Return Marks Special Moment for Care Residents

They say it’s the little things that can have the biggest impact, and an extra special welcome for the return of Belong Warrington’s Bistro has been met with joy from residents at the care village. During its closure for the lockdown, a painted window mural featuring residents’ memories has been added to the on-site eatery.

The vibrant tree design, painted by experience day support worker, Jade Shield, has been complemented with hand and leaf artworks created by older people and those with dementia who reside at the village. Speaking of this, Carol Norman, experience coordinator at Belong Warrington, said: “We’ve been working on a number of activities to encourage reminiscence, including one entitled ‘These Hands’.

“The project involves discussing with residents the tasks their hands have been busy with throughout their lives and then writing up their memories for the display. There’s been some fascinating insights including where residents used to work, memories of World War II, and details of their childhoods. Bringing these together for everyone to share has made the return to the Bistro all the more special.”

The village’s Bistro, usually open to the general public, as well as residents, had been temporarily closed owing to Covid-19 restrictions. As part of its return — initially just for residents — those at Belong Warrington are now able to enjoy their breakfast club sessions in their ‘household’ bubbles that they reside in.

Carol Norman continued: “The Bistro is one the focal points for village life and so we wanted to give residents an extra reason to smile, now they are able to use it again. Residents have managed very well during the lockdowns and the Bistro return is a very welcome occasion, with an added touch of the Tree which can be also be enjoyed by loved ones for their Covid-safe visits. We look forward to welcoming the wider community back in the near future.”