Care homes team up for matchday magic

Football fever has officially kicked off at a care home in Basingstoke as residents and team members took part in an afternoon of sporting fun. 

Care UK’s Dashwood Manor, on Bradley Way, teamed up with Parsons Grange in Shinfield and Bickerton House in Bracknell to participate in a football tournament and join the nation in celebrating the huge summer of sport. 

Three five-a-side teams came together at Great Hollands recreational ground to compete head to head. Led by residents acting as referees, coaches and cheerleaders, the team members from the homes put on their shin pads and boots to try to earn the trophy and bragging rights. 

Bickerton House tasted victory in a tense tournament as spectators cheered on from pitchside while enjoying a picnic of delicious savoury and sweet treats. 

Resident Winifred Rishman, aged 99, said: “It was lovely to see young and old, men and ladies playing together and having a lovely time. The best bit was enjoying an ice cream and a cold drink all together!”

The event was part of Care UK’s ‘Goal-den Moments' initiative, which aims to bring generations together and encourage residents to reminisce about cherished football memories with the local community and share new experiences.

Anna Maria Bieniek-Nawala, Deputy Manager at Dashwood Manor, said: “This tournament has been a fantastic way to bring people together and celebrate residents’ shared love of football.

“For many, the game holds a lifetime of memories, and seeing those come to life again through playing and cheering from the sidelines has been very special.

“We’re so grateful to Great Hollands recreational ground for helping to make it such a wonderful day for everyone involved.”

Dashwood Manor 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, with luxury facilities including a hair and beauty salon, cinema, bar and gardens.