Thirtieth Anniversary Party Celebrates a ‘Pearl of a Care Home’
A Dorset care home chose a traditional pearl theme to celebrate its 30th anniversary in style.
Residents and team members at Colten Care’s Whitecliffe House in Blandford marked the occasion by planting a rose pearl bush in their garden and staging a party with pearl-inspired table decorations and gifts.
As well as sampling a home-baked anniversary cake with sugar pearl balls, the fun included a high tea and a residents’ choir performing popular tunes including Singing in the Rain.
Donning yellow hats and umbrellas to mimic the famous street scene in the musical, the resident singers were conducted by Colten Care’s Music and Arts Partner Fiona Pritchard.
And they were accompanied on the piano by fellow musician and Companionship team member Caroline Pugh.
Colten Care’s Executive Chairman Ian Hudson and the Operations Manager for Whitecliffe House, Peter Doyle, joined in the festivities and, along with resident Lois Ramsden, helped to plant the pearl rose outside.
Other guests at the party included three members of staff with 52 years’ service between them.
Healthcare Assistants Cheryl Jay and Bernadette Stayner have worked at the home for 17 and 21 years respectively while Domestic Assistant Pat Johnson has been there for 16. The trio were presented with bouquets of flowers in recognition.
Colleague and Waitress Amy James summarised how staff feel about the home, saying: “I really enjoy coming in to work and seeing the residents. I hope that I am making their day a little brighter.”
Home Manager Chris Lee said: “The anniversary theme was so appropriate. Whitecliffe is truly a pearl of a care home with a wonderful atmosphere and a proper homely feel. We have a great team devoted to ensuring our residents are extremely happy.”
Resident and retired physiotherapist Coralie Jackson attended the official opening of Whitecliffe House as a visitor back in 1991.
Discussing the quality of care thirty years on, Coralie said: “I’m pleased to say I have made the correct decision by making Whitecliffe House my home. The care I receive is very good. The staff are very nice and will always go above and beyond.”
