Newbury care home teams up with community for matchday magic

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

Care UK’s Winchcombe Place, on Maple Crescent, hosted a football match with locals to join the nation in celebrating the huge summer of sport. 

The care team organised the Winchcombe Place Unity Cup match for residents, families, team members and a VIP guest to take to the pitch in a friendly football match. 

The Mayor of Thatcham, Councillor Mark Lillycrop, even joined in on the match as well as cheering on the teams. Winchcombe United secured the win against Maple Rangers with the final score of 5-2.

Guests and residents enjoyed Bovril, orange segments and pies, similar to the snacks they used to eat during football practice in their childhood.

Resident Jim said: “I played football from nine-years-old and had a game most weekends. I always enjoyed sports growing up. I really enjoyed the football-themed day. There was a great atmosphere, and it was lovely to see everyone playing together. 

Claire Cullen, Home Manager at Winchcombe Place, said: “Since we first opened the doors of our care home, we’ve been looking for ways to connect with Newbury residents, particularly through engaging and meaningful experiences. This event has done just that.

“Football has the unique ability to unlock memories and bring generations together, and it’s been wonderful to see residents sharing their stories and enthusiasm with younger members of the community.

“We’re proud to play a part in bringing people together and strengthening those important community connections.”

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.

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

Winchcombe Place has been designed to deliver the very best standards of care and to enable residents to lead active and fulfilling lives in a luxury environment. The home provides full-time residential and dementia care, as well as short-term respite care, and there is plenty of space for relaxation and recreation.