Kidderminster care home welcomes poet

A care home in Kidderminster has celebrated World Poetry Day with a local author.

Care UK’s Brook Court, on Oldnall Road, opened its doors to author and poet Tony Smith for an afternoon of stories and rhymes.

During the poetry club, residents enjoyed listening to Tony read a collection of his own works, exploring life in Kidderminster in the 50s, 60s, and 70s, and the significance of the carpet trade. 

Following the readings, residents sat with Tony and discussed their own memories of Kidderminster and what the town means to them. 

Dillis Lacey, resident at Metchley Manor, said: “I really enjoyed the poetry that Tony read. It reminded me of old Kidderminster and the way the town was when it was the beating heart of the carpet industry. The poems brought back a lot of memories for me, especially from my childhood." 

Shirley Summerbell, Home Manager at Brook Court, said: “We had a lot of fun celebrating World Poetry Day. 

“Reading – or simply listening to – poetry has plenty of therapeutic benefits for older people, increasing social interaction, promoting creativity and providing relaxation. Poems also offer a great way to encourage residents to reminisce and share memories from their younger days as they reflect on the writing.

“I’d like to extend a huge thanks to Tony for an inspiring and thought-provoking session. We’re already looking forward to planning our next creative activity!”

Brook Court is a state-of-the-art care home that provides full-time residential, nursing and dementia care, as well as short-term respite care. It features 67 en-suite bedrooms and has been designed to enable residents to lead active and fulfilled lives, while also promoting independence. The building incorporates plenty of space for hobby and leisure activities, and includes its own cinema, hair and beauty salon and café.