Fleet care home teams up with schoolchildren for matchday magic

Football fever has officially kicked off at a care home in Fleet as residents welcomed a local school for an afternoon of sporting fun. 

Care UK’s Bourley Grange, on Bourley Road in Church Crookham, teamed up with pupils from Tweseldown Infant School to participate in football-themed arts and crafts and join the nation in celebrating the huge summer of sport. 

The children and residents got their creative juices flowing and designed their own football shirts.

With each person choosing a nation, they carefully painted flags onto T-shirts to wear in support throughout this summer’s big tournament. The group enjoyed the arts and crafts and sandwiches specially prepared by the kitchen team. 

Resident Jan, aged 92, said: “Having the children around was the happiest part of the day. Sharing the activity with them made it even more special. We painted white T-shirts with our favourite country's flag, and I loved doing arts together. I have such happy memories of supporting England in the World Cup with my husband and family.” 

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 while sharing new experiences.

Racquel Merdegia, Home Manager at Bourley Grange, said: “We know how powerful sport can be in bringing people together, with football in particular holding a special place in the hearts of many residents.

“This event has been a fantastic way to connect with the local community while celebrating shared passions and memories. Whether it’s supporting a favourite team or recalling matchday traditions, these moments help spark meaningful conversations and joy.

“We’re delighted to have welcomed Tweseldown Infant School and would like to thank them for helping to make it such a wonderful day for everyone involved.” 

For more information about Goal-den Moments, please visit careuk.com/goal-den-moments.

Bourley Grange provides full-time residential, nursing and dementia care, as well as short-term respite care. The home has been designed to deliver the very best standards and boasts luxury facilities including a cinema, hair and beauty salon and pub.