Slough care home makes former footballer’s dream come true

A resident at a care home in Slough has had his long-held wish granted with a pitch-perfect outing.  

When the team at Care UK’s Oak House, on Forest Close off Wexham Road, heard about former footballer Arnaldo Venturini’s desire to get back in the stands, they set out to fulfil his dream.

They treated Arnaldo to a day out to watch Slough Town take on Wealdstone in a pre-season friendly at Arbour Park.

Although the home team suffered a 2-0 defeat, Arnaldo had a wonderful time immersed in the energy and atmosphere of the crowd. He even enjoyed a delicious burger, beer and some ice cream to finish off the day.

Arnaldo said: “Even though we didn’t win, the boys played so well. I felt like I was a part of the team!”

Arnaldo’s love for the beautiful game began in his childhood, before he was scouted by Hounslow FC aged his 20s. He played semi-professionally for 20 years as a forward, hanging up his boots in the 1990s. 

Unable to stay away from his beloved club, Arnaldo rejoined as manager, helping his team to success from the sidelines.

Decades later, the 78-year-old’s passion for football still burns strong and is something he shares often with fellow residents and the care home team.

The visit was part of Care UK’s Wishing Tree initiative, which encourages residents to put their dreams forward, allowing them to reconnect with a past hobby or try something completely new. From flying a plane to enjoying a fish and chip supper, no wish is too big or small for the team to try to grant.

Bozena Szczepaniak, Home Manager at Oak House, said: “We are always looking for ways to make residents’ wishes come true, so when Arnaldo expressed his desire to attend a football match, we had to make it a reality.

“Seeing the smile on Arnaldo’s face throughout the trip was truly priceless. It was a special day filled with joy and excitement, and he couldn’t stop talking about it for the rest of the week!

“A big thank you to the club for donating complimentary tickets and our wonderful team here for making the day so memorable. It was fantastic to be part of it.”

Oak House has been designed to deliver the very best standards, providing full-time residential and dementia care, as well as short-term respite care. There is plenty of space for relaxation and recreation, with facilities including a cinema room, café and hair and beauty salon.