Framlingham care home resident makes tee-rific return to golf course

A resident at a care home in Framlingham has enjoyed a par-fect return to a sport close to his heart.

Robin Morley, who lives at Care UK’s Mills Meadow on the aptly named Fore Street, had his wish to get back onto a golf course granted.

Having spent a lifetime on the fairways, Robin, 85, had been unable to continue playing in recent years following his dementia diagnosis. Keen to reconnect him with his favourite pastime, the team at Mills Meadow arranged a visit to Thorpeness Golf Club.

He took part in one of the club’s Forget Me Not sessions – an initiative designed to help people living with dementia continue enjoying the game with support from club members and volunteers.

The outing offered Robin the chance to step back onto familiar ground and share a few hole-in-one memories with fellow golf enthusiasts.

Reflecting on Robin’s experience, his wife, Susan, said: “Robin thoroughly enjoyed the day. It was lovely to see him get back on the course, and he was happy to see he could still hit the ball well, and that he hadn't lost his touch. He cannot wait to go again.”

Golf has played a significant role throughout Robin’s life. He first picked up a club at the age of 11 and went on to play for decades; he even enjoyed regular rounds throughout the three years he spent living in Cameroon!

He later played in France and won a trip to the Ryder Cup in Boston as part of a team competition, receiving a miniature version of the iconic trophy as a keepsake.

Robin’s experience was made possible thanks to Care UK’s Wishing Tree initiative, which encourages residents to suggest ideas for new hobbies they’d like to try, places they’d like to visit or even activities linked to past careers. From skiing to a fish and chip supper, the programme is designed to help residents lead fulfilling lives.

Amy Laws, Deputy Manager at Mills Meadow, said: “We know how important it is to help people continue enjoying the hobbies that have shaped their lives. Golf has always been a big part of Robin’s identity, so arranging this special visit meant a great deal to everyone involved.

“It was wonderful to see him back on the course, completely in his element, sharing stories and enjoying every moment. We’re very grateful to everyone at Thorpeness Golf Club for helping to make the day such a swing-ing success.”

Mills Meadow is a modern care home providing full-time residential and dementia care, as well as short-term respite care. The team also operates a day centre which is open to the community throughout the week. Designed to enable residents to live enjoyable and fulfilling lives, the home has its very own cinema, café and hair and beauty salon, and there is plenty of space – both indoors and out – for relaxation and recreation.