Cheltenham care home resident has wild time on safari

A resident at a care home in Cheltenham had a roaring good time as his wish to visit the zoo came true.

The team from Care UK’s Sandfields, on St George’s Road, arranged for animal-lover John Roberts to meet and feed a host of furry and feathered friends at Cotswold Wildlife Park. 

 

From admiring rhinos and penguins to sharing laughs with cheeky meerkats and monkeys, John enjoyed a fun-filled, hands-on day.

The 81-year-old also got up close to feed Century, the oldest giraffe at the park, and visited all the other long-necked leaf-reachers to gain the nickname ‘Jungle John’ by the park team.

John said: “I loved seeing the animals and sharing stories with the help of my daughter. My favourite moment was feeding the giraffe even if he did try and eat my hat!”

This special outing was made possible through Care UK’s Wishing Tree initiative, which encourages residents to share their personal ambitions. Whether it's revisiting a past hobby, enjoying a classic fish and chip supper or trying something new like flying a plane, every wish is embraced – no matter how big or small.

Malaika Charles, Home Manager at Sandfields, said: “It was a truly memorable day for all involved. Watching John reconnect with old memories and exploring new experiences was wonderful to see.

“The smile on his face was so heartwarming. It’s this kind of outing that brings so much happiness and creates lasting impressions on residents, and we’re proud to make them happen.”

Sandfields is a state-of-the-art care home that provides full-time residential, nursing and dementia care, as well as short-term respite care. The building incorporates plenty of space for hobby and leisure activities, and includes its own cinema, hair and beauty salon and café.