Ware care home resident enjoys special cathedral visit

A resident at a care home in Ware has had his wish granted by stepping inside one of the country's most historic places of worship.

Derek Capon, who lives at Care UK’s Snowdrop House on Baldock Street, has long held his faith close to his heart. After converting to Catholicism at the encouragement of his wife, he became a Eucharistic minister, serving his community for around 20 years by distributing holy communion during mass and visiting those who were unable to attend church.

For Derek, 92, faith has provided a sense of purpose, peace and fulfilment throughout his life – something he has continued to embrace since moving to Snowdrop House, where he regularly attends weekly services at held at Snowdrop House by St. Mary’s Church.

So, when Derek shared his wish to visit St Albans Cathedral, the team was delighted to help make it happen.

During his trip, Derek, alongside fellow residents Rachel Smart and Jackie Page as well as team members, enjoyed a guided tour of the cathedral, taking in its impressive architecture and learning more about its history.

He was also accompanied by Reverend Ysmena Pentelow, who regularly leads services at St Mary the Virgin in Ware and has become a close friend of Derek’s.

Reflecting on his day, Derek said: “It was such a brilliant day, very informative and interesting. It brought back some lovely memories of when I used to officiate at wedding ceremonies.”

Derek'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 active and fulfilling lives.

Clare Crow, Home Manager at Snowdrop House, said: “Derek’s faith has been such an important part of his life, so it was wonderful to see how much he enjoyed the opportunity to visit St Albans Cathedral. After spending so many years supporting others through his role as a Eucharistic minister, it was lovely to be able to create an experience that was meaningful to him.

“We work hard to ensure residents can continue doing the things that bring them purpose and joy, whatever their age. The Wishing Tree is a brilliant way for us to discover what our residents would love to do and help turn those ideas into reality, and we were delighted to help make Derek’s special visit happen.”

Snowdrop House is a state-of-the-art care home that provides full-time residential, nursing and dementia care, as well as short-term respite care. It incorporates plenty of space for leisure activities and hobbies, and includes its own cinema, hair and beauty salon and café.