Southampton’s newest care home celebrates grand launch with special guests

Residents and team members at Southampton’s newest care home were joined by a host of special guests for a grand launch celebration.

Care UK’s  The Wickets, on Banister Road, was declared officially open by former Essex cricket captain and Hampshire Women Head Coach Paul Prichard, who cut the ribbon and joined the local community for the festivities.

Guests were treated to an afternoon to remember with live entertainment from harpist Tezni Williams, while Lord Mayor of Southampton Councillor James Baillie also helped get everyone into the celebratory spirit.

The team at The Wickets organised a host of exciting activities for residents’ families and the local community to enjoy, including opening the sound bath with Oceansage Therapy and unveiling the home’s salon for quick makeovers.

After touring the new home to see what life is like at The Wickets, guests enjoyed a ‘Strawberry Stumped’ cocktail in the bar and were treated to cream tea and scones in the lounge.

Pooja Dhoot, Home Manager at The Wickets, said: “Our grand launch party was a huge success and the perfect way to officially declare The Wickets open.

“Our neighbours have been so warm and welcoming, and we loved meeting so many local people – we already feel like part of the community!

“We were delighted to be joined by our special guests and would like to extend a big thank you to Paul Prichard and Councillor James Baillie. It truly was a day to remember, and we hope to welcome everyone again very soon for more fantastic events at The Wickets.”

Paul Prichard added: “I was honoured to play a part in opening The Wickets. Meeting the fantastic new team and the residents who are preparing to move in was such a joy.

“There’s already an incredible sense of community and energy in the air, which I am sure will continue to grow!”

Designed to enable residents to lead active and fulfilling lives, while also promoting independence, The Wickets provides full-time residential, nursing and dementia care, as well as short-term respite care. The home incorporates plenty of space for hobby and leisure activities and includes its own cinema, hair and beauty salon and pub.