Care Home Open Week was a joyful opportunity to open our doors and welcome visitors into our care homes, sharing the blessing of community life through time, conversation and togetherness

Care Home Week took place from 15th–21st June, and throughout the week music played a central role in bringing people together in ways that went beyond words. At Emmaus House in Whitehaven, familiar songs filled the home as Ged Hagan led a sing-along over tea, coffee and cake, sparking memories and easy conversation. At Luff House, Walton-on-the-Naze, the shanty band created an uplifting atmosphere, with music acting as a shared language of joy and presence.

Alongside the musical moments, there were quieter opportunities for reflection and gratitude. At Koinonia Christian Care Home in Worthing, a Songs of Praise service was followed by afternoon tea, where the conversations that followed held as much meaning as the hymns themselves. These moments offered a sense of calm, with time to simply be together in a thoughtful and unhurried way.

The week also highlighted the value of simple everyday pleasures. In the sunshine at Evington Home, 'family members' (those who live with us), relatives and staff spent time outdoors playing tennis before coming together for cream teas in the garden. These unassuming moments were filled with laughter, warmth and fellowship.

Intergenerational connection brought its own special joy. At Finborough Court in Great Finborough, children from the Finborough and Buxhall Under 5s group explored a Gnome Trail, before gathering indoors for biscuits, conversation and ukulele music. There was a particular tenderness in the ease with which different generations came together.

We are grateful to all who visited, contributed and took part, helping to make Care Home Open Week a gentle celebration of connection, care and belonging across our homes.