Miniature ponies ride into Francis Court for Care Home Open Day

Home news

Jul 01, 2015

Care UK’s Francis Court care home on Borers Arms Road in Copthorne near Crawley welcomed local people through its doors last weekend for a Wild West-themed event to celebrate Care Home Open Day.

Francis Court was one of thousands of care homes across the UK which took part in the annual initiative aimed at challenging perceptions of care homes, connecting residents with even more people in their community, and developing relationships across the generations.

The care home was transformed into a Wild West village for the open day, with a visit from two miniature ponies proving to be a highlight for residents and guests alike.  Visitors to Francis Court also enjoyed a fun line dancing session, while entertainment was provided by the care home’s receptionist, Jo York, who sang live for everyone throughout the afternoon, as well as professional singer, Louise Trinick, who performed a Country and Western-inspired set.

Nicola Palladino, home manager at Francis Court said: “We were thrilled to pledge our support for Care Home Open Day and to welcome so many local people along to our open day celebrations. 

“Although our home is always open to guests, it was wonderful to have a day to really celebrate with visitors, residents and colleagues alike and show all the good work we do. It was pleasure to meet everyone and to give visitors the opportunity to take a look around Francis Court. We all had a wonderful day and hopefully we have demonstrated how modern care homes are warm and inviting while also strengthening our links with the local community here in Crawley.

Visitors to the Care Home Open Day event at Francis Court were also be able to pick up their copy of Care UK’s Good to Go.  The free guide highlights how important it is for those living with dementia – and their carers – to get out and about, and the emotional and physical benefits of staying active.

Good to Go provides practical advice on how to make the most of every outing, big or small, with words of encouragement volunteered by people working in Care UK care homes, as well as residents and family carers.  The guide can also be downloaded free at www.careuk.com/goodtogo.

For more information on Francis Court, please call customer relations manager, Karen Davies, on 0333 434 3030, or email Karen.Davies@careuk.com.   

To find out more Care Home Open Day, please go to www.nationalcarehomeopenday.org.uk