How a-boat it! Care home residents set sail to local beauty spot

Team members at a Whitstable care home pushed the boat out when they planned a surprise boat trip for residents.

Residents at Care UK’s Harrier Lodge, on Thanet Way, set sail to Little Venice for an autumnal picnic after team members surprised them with a special boat trip, courtesy of Kingfisher Medway Trust. Residents enjoyed seeing the swans glide past and were encouraged to reminisce about their favourite days spent in the local area.

 

For Peggy, a resident at Harrier Lodge, the trip onboard the Kingfisher brought back fond memories of her time spent travelling around local canals with her husband, Kenneth, who owned his own boat. Commenting on the day, Peggy said: “Me and Ken loved spending time on our boat. We would often go down to Grove Ferry and wait for the water to come in, before sailing up to the Thames. One time I decided to take a photo of every bridge we passed, only to realize I forgot to put the film in, I felt like a right fool!”

Diane Collins, Home Manager at Harrier Lodge, said: “With pandemic restrictions now eased, we’re delighted to be able to plan visits out again for the residents. This was a wonderful way to spend a sunny autumnal afternoon, as residents and team members took a gentle cruise along the canal through the beautiful Kent countryside. 

 

“Being in the great outdoors can have a positive impact on the physical and mental wellbeing of older people. This boat trip offered a sensory experience, where residents were encouraged to see, feel and hear the nature around them in a safe and calm environment. It was great to see everyone enjoying each other’s company and waving at people passing by as the boat made its way to Little Venice.

“We look forward to planning more trips for the residents very soon.”

Harrier Lodge is a purpose-built care home which has been designed to enable residents to live active and fulfilled lives, while also promoting independence. The home provides full-time residential, nursing and specialist dementia care for up to 65 older people in Whitstable, and incorporates space for hobby and leisure activities, including its own cinema, hairdressing salon and café. 

For more information about Harrier Lodge, please call Home Manager, Diane Collins, on 01227 808749, or email Diane.Collins@careuk.com.

For more general information on Harrier Lodge, please visit careuk.com/harrier-lodge.