Care Home Festive Lunch Reunites Long Lost Family

Alexandra (green hat) and Ena (blue cardigan) were reunited at Beaumont Hall’s recent community lunch

Two cousins were reunited this week at a local care home’s festive lunch, after losing touch with each other for over 30 years.   Alexandra Gilbert and Ena Cooper were both guests at a community lunch at Beaumont Hall in Beaumont Leys when they recognised each other.

The home was hosting the meal for local older people who may be lonely or isolated to enjoy some quality time with their residents, participating in good old conversation and fun activities.  Alexandra lives round the corner from Beaumont Hall, and is a regular visitor to the home, although this was the first event she had attended.

Alexandra and Ena couldn’t believe it when they saw each other and became quite emotional.  Alexandra’s husband has recently passed away so the meeting was a great boost for her.  She said “I am so pleased to be back in touch with Ena, we will certainly keep in contact now.  Thank you to Beaumont Hall for a lovely afternoon and for reuniting us!”.

Beaumont Hall, which is operated by Ideal Carehomes, provided the meal and entertainment for free, and ensures that there are regular events such as the festive lunch where residents can benefit from meeting new local people. Home Manager, Sarah McCann, said “We are all so pleased to have played a part in reuniting Alexandra and Ena – and just before Christmas too!  I know they are going to keep in touch now so we have invited them to enjoy their next catch up in our coffee shop in the New Year.  We can’t wait to see them again!”.

Guests and residents enjoyed a festive lunch, and went on to watch the Christmas classic ‘It’s a Wonderful Life’ in the cinema room with a glass of sherry.  Beaumont Hall has 60 en-suite bedrooms and is committed to offering their residents aspirational lifestyle choices and an active social environment with events, trips and daily activities on offer.