Chichester care home resident’s crafty wish comes true

A Chichester care home resident's childhood dream came true.  

Jane Smith, aged 79, a resident at Care UK’s Chichester Grange, on Grosvenor Road, had dreamed of trying her hand at pottery since she saw it on the television as a child. 

Passionate about arts and crafts, Jane spent 50 years honing her artistic talents working with the Scouts Association, however had never had the opportunity to sit in front of a potter’s wheel.

When the team at Chichester Grange learned about Jane’s wish, they got to work and arranged for Whitecroft Pottery and Su Cloud Ceramics to surprise her with the opportunity to craft her own clay creations at the home. Using a pottery wheel, Jane made a tealight holder, a bowl, an ashtray and a jug.

Commenting on the experience, Jane said: “I loved feeling the clay around my fingers and being able to shape it. It was slimy and cold like I thought it would be. I made my son an ashtray, but the rest are for display here.”

The pottery session was part of the home’s Wishing Tree initiative, which encourages residents to put wishes forward, allowing them to reconnect with a past hobby or try something completely new – from flying a plane to enjoying a fish and chip supper, no wish is too big or small.

Caroline Thomas, Customer Relations Manager at Chichester Grange, added: “Jane is passionate about arts and crafts, so when she told us that she’d always wanted to try pottery, the team couldn’t wait to arrange this for her. 

“Our Wishing Tree initiative is a wonderful way for residents to share their passions and ambitions and it’s hugely rewarding to be able to make these a reality. Jane has always been passionate about arts and crafts, and we were thrilled to enable her to expand her repertoire of crafty skills. 

“I’d like to extend a massive thank you to Whitecroft Pottery, Su Cloud Ceramics, and the team here at Chichester Grange who helped make this possible – Jane hasn’t stopped talking about the day and showing off her creations to everyone.” 

Designed to enable residents to live active and fulfilled lives while also promoting independence, Chichester Grange, incorporates space for hobby and leisure activities. Luxury facilities includes a café, hair and beauty salon, cinema and bar, and stunning gardens. The home was awarded the ‘Care Home Design of the Year’ at the Leaders in Care Awards 2022.