Furry friendships for residents at Care UK homes in Suffolk and Sussex

Company news

Sep 20, 2016

Residents at Care UK’s Glastonbury Court and Darlington Court care homes recently welcomed some very special neighbours into their homes as part of the provider’s commitment to activity based care.

At Glastonbury Court in Bury St. Edmunds, residents are keeping active and enjoying the benefits of being outdoors with the help of two new chickens and a rabbit in the garden.

Jennie and Florence the chickens, and Flopsy the rabbit, are enjoying lots of fuss and attention as residents help to feed and care for them, as well as reminisce and share conversations about pets they had when they were younger.

The pets were chosen and named by residents and are encouraging conversations at the home as well as providing a range of sensory and reminiscence benefits, particularly for those living with dementia. Residents are hoping to welcome a second rabbit to the home in the coming months.

Home manager Jennie Rodger said: “We’re delighted with our new additions at Glastonbury Court and we’re glad that they bring so many benefits for residents. The chickens and rabbits have really helped residents to enjoy spending time outdoors, keeping active and provide a sense of responsibility.”

At Darlington Court in Littlehampton, some friendly miniature ponies from Pony Pals created quite a stir when they trotted into the home. Everyone had the opportunity to stroke and pet the animals and enjoy an informative talk on their individual personalities and how they’re looked after.

The ponies were also taken on a tour of the home, visiting residents to ensure everyone had the opportunity to meet and interact with the animals.

Home manager Fiona Wiederkehr said: “It was wonderful to see the smiles on everyone’s faces when the miniature ponies arrived. Petting animals and being in their company has proven therapeutic benefits, particularly for people living with dementia, and you could see from residents reactions just how engaged they were when given the opportunity to get so close to such lovely, affectionate animals.”