Care Home Surprises Resident With Caravan Holiday

June Cole, a resident of Eglantine Villa Bupa Care Home, was surprised with a one-night getaway courtesy of the home, as part of Bupa’s NeverTooLate initiative.

The team at Eglantine Villa arranged the trip for June after learning about her love for caravan holidays. June, who is married with two grown-up children, spent many happy summers in the family’s own caravan, often visiting Swalecliff and Hastings.

When the Eglantine Villa team surprised June with a trip to Kent Coast Haven Holiday Park, she was moved to tears of happiness. June shared: “I never thought I’d be able to go again so I am very grateful for this trip.”

June was accompanied by home manager, Bryony John, and senior activity co-ordinator, Maria Everest.

The trip included a full schedule, with a stop for lunch at a country pub on the way down to Kent Coast Haven. Upon arrival, the group enjoyed a cup of tea while exploring the park’s grounds. That evening, after having her favourite meal of fish and chips for tea, June watched a live singer and danced until 10pm.

Bryony John, home manager, commented:
“At Eglantine Villa, we strive to make the last years of our residents’ lives the very best we can. We believe that being in care can be just as, if not more, exciting and fulfilling than before our residents joined us.”

Maria Everest, senior activity co-ordinator, added:
“When June mentioned she loved caravan holidays and would love to go one last time, we knew we wanted to make it happen for her.”

The Eglantine Villa team also arranged a second surprise for June after discovering she is a huge fan of Dermot O’Leary. The care home secured a personalised video message from him, just for June, much to her delight.