FESTIVE FUN ACROSS BUCKLAND CARE: A CHRISTMAS TO REMEMBER
This Christmas season, Buckland Care’s homes have been brimming with festive cheer, creating heartwarming memories for residents, staff, and visitors alike From creative crafting sessions to joyful carol singing, each home has embraced the magic of the holidays in its own special way, making the season truly unforgettable. Here’s a glimpse into some of the wonderful highlights from across the group:
Blackwater Mill
Inspired by the Christmas World at Busy Bee Garden Centre, the team at Blackwater Mill transformed the pink lounge into a stunning winter wonderland. Residents have been enjoying the cosy, festive atmosphere that truly captures the spirit of the season
Brunswick House
The team at Brunswick House brought festive cheer in the most delightful way, dressing up as a Christmas tree, a reindeer, and a snowman Residents were entertained by the lighthearted fun, which added to the home’s holiday joy
Hartwell Lodge
The Christmas Craft Fayre at Hartwell Lodge was a huge success From beautifully decorated stalls to homemade wreaths and mince pies, it was a wonderful event for the community Special thanks go to Elodie, who excelled on the mince pie stall and decorated the first Christmas tree
Inglefield
Creativity was in full swing at Inglefield as residents spent the afternoon crafting festive wreaths for their bedroom doors Earlier in the day, Maria from Independent Arts brought extra joy to the home with her inspiring activities
Kingland House
Residents at Kingland House enjoyed a festive party filled with laughter and music. A light lunch with “picky bits” was followed by a lively Christmas singalong with Nick, creating a joyful celebration for all.
Mulberry House
At Mulberry House, Christmas pudding making was the highlight of the week Residents enthusiastically got involved, adding plenty of festive spirit (and a generous splash of brandy) to their creations
The Firs
Students from St Peter’s School, Budleigh, filled
The Firs with beautiful carols, creating a heartwarming afternoon for everyone Residents happily joined in the singing, making it a truly memorable day
West Bank
Residents at West Bank embraced the festive spirit with a trip to see the pantomime Mother Goose The laughter and fun brought by the show were the perfect way to celebrate the season
Residents and staff at Inglefield enjoying an afternoon of wreath making
The Orchards
The 1st Wroughton Scouts brought festive joy to The Orchards with an evening of carol singing Residents joined in with hot chocolate and cookies in hand, and the Scouts were thanked with selection boxes for their efforts, spreading smiles all around
Willow Bank
Willow Bank has been filled with festive charm as beautifully decorated trees appeared throughout the home Each one brings a touch of holiday magic and warmth to the residents
Woodland Court
At Woodland Court, the elves have been hard at work preparing Santa’s Grotto Excitement is building for the big weekend when Santa will be welcoming visitors to share in the Christmas magic
The festive season across Buckland Care’s homes has been filled with joy, creativity, and togetherness. The teams’ dedication to making Christmas special for residents has been truly wonderful. Here’s to a new year filled with even more memorable moments!
FESTIVE CHEER RINGS OUT AT THE BIG BUCKLAND CAROL SINGALONG!
Our staff and residents were delighted to welcome families and friends who joined in making this event truly special Their support and enthusiasm added an extra layer of joy to an already magical day. Homes also connected via a Teams Link, allowing the entire group to come together and share in the festive celebrations
Missed the live performances or want to relive the festive fun? Scan the QR code below to watch highlights from the singalong across our homes and experience the holiday spirit that brought us all together
Earlier this month, our Buckland Care Homes came alive with the sound of festive music as residents, staff, and families gathered for the much-anticipated Big Buckland Carol Singalong! After weeks of rehearsing their favourite carols and warming up their vocal cords, everyone was ready to spread holiday cheer
The event was a heart-warming celebration of togetherness, with a joyful mix of traditional carols like Silent Night and lively Christmas hits such as Jingle Bells The homes were beautifully decorated, adding to the festive atmosphere as everyone donned their Santa hats and sang their hearts out.
A huge thank you to everyone who participated, from our talented residents and dedicated staff to the supportive families and surprise guests
You made this day unforgettable!
Here’s to more shared moments and musical memories in the New Year!
Woodland Court resident Peggy getting a visit from their very own Santa (Jayson, Team Leader at Woodland)
West Bank residents, family and staff take part in the Buckland Singalong
HARTWELL LODGE RESIDENTS SHARE AN AFTERNOON
FULL OF GIGGLES WITH JIGGY WRIGGLERS FAREHAM
Residents participate and enjoy the lively entertainment brought by Jiggy Wrigglers
Their visit created a vibrant and cheerful experience that brought together generations in a truly special way
The team at Hartwell Lodge believe in the importance of creating opportunities for connection and meaningful experiences Events like this foster a strong sense of community and leave lasting smiles on everyone’s faces They are committed to hosting activities that bring joy, companionship, and cherished memories for all involved
“It was such a wonderful afternoon!” said one resident. “We loved singing along and spending time with the children – it was just so lovely to share those familiar rhymes and songs ”
Hartwell Lodge, recently welcomed the Jiggy Wrigglers Fareham playgroup for an unforgettable afternoon of fun, music, and shared joy The intergenerational event brought residents and little visitors together for a session of Jiggy Vintage, creating moments full of smiles and connection Residents sang along to familiar tunes, engaged with the children, and recited classic rhymes that evoked happy memories The lively atmosphere was infectious, leaving everyone feeling uplifted and delighted
The Jiggy Wrigglers team did a fantastic job bringing their unique mix of music and play to Hartwell Lodge.
MULBERRY HOUSE RESIDENTS ENJOY A FUN GINGERBREAD HOUSE CHALLENGE
Residents at Mulberry House had a wonderful time participating in a festive Gingerbread House Challenge The afternoon was filled with creativity, laughter, and plenty of holiday cheer
After careful consideration, Team one, made up of Liz and Shirley, was declared the winner Their beautifully crafted gingerbread house impressed everyone well done to both!
Team two, featuring Bobbie and Dora, put up a strong effort, finishing in a close second Their gingerbread creation seemed to attract some unexpected attention was that the Big Bad Wolf on the lookout for the Three Little Pigs? He certainly huffed and puffed!
The event was a fantastic way to celebrate the season, bringing joy and smiles to everyone involved. Well done to all participants!
Hartwell resident beams with happiness at Jiggly Wrigglers
Liz and Shirley working on their winning Gingerbread House
CELEBRATING PERSONALISED, INCLUSIVE CARE AT INGLEFIELD
At Buckland Care, providing exceptional, personalised care lies at the heart of everything we do This ethos is perfectly demonstrated by the dedicated team at Inglefield, where thoughtful, person-centred support enriches the lives of every resident
Care Beyond Expectations
The team at Inglefield doesn’t just deliver care they create meaningful experiences Through tailored activities, compassionate support, and a deep understanding of residents’ individual needs, they ensure that every day is engaging, fulfilling, and memorable
From personalised birthday celebrations to resident-led garden projects, no detail is overlooked Recently, residents enjoyed crafting sessions, lively music events, and even themed afternoons inspired by their favourite pastimes Every activity reflects a shared commitment to promoting joy, dignity, and belonging
Understanding Unique Needs
The team takes time to learn each resident’s story their preferences, hobbies, and life experiences Care plans are designed not just for medical needs but to nurture emotional well-being, encouraging residents to continue pursuing their passions.
Creating a Family Atmosphere
What sets Inglefield apart is its family-like environment. Staff build trusting relationships with residents and their families, fostering a sense of home where everyone feels respected and valued. This close bond helps create a warm, welcoming atmosphere where residents can thrive
Empowering Residents Through Choice
Residents are given the freedom to shape their daily routines Whether choosing what to wear, what to eat, or how to spend their time, they are empowered to maintain independence, supported by a caring team ready to assist when needed
Moments That Matter
Small acts of kindness create big impacts Staff often go the extra mile whether organising surprise tea parties or helping residents connect with loved ones through technology These thoughtful gestures build lasting connections and fond memories
Inclusive Activities for All
The team ensures that residents who are bed-bound or choose to stay in their rooms are fully included in daily activities and never treated as an afterthought A dedicated activities schedule is in place to provide meaningful and enjoyable experiences tailored to their specific needs.
Excellence in End-of-Life Care
Inglefield is proud to hold the GSF (Gold Standards Framework) accreditation, recognising excellence in end-of-life and palliative care. This is the highest accreditation of care that can be awarded to care homes, reflecting the team’s unwavering commitment to dignity, compassion, and outstanding care during life's final stages
A Culture of Care and Commitment
The success of Inglefield’s approach stems from the dedication of its entire team Every staff member, from care assistants and activity coordinators to kitchen and housekeeping teams, shares a common goal: to make Inglefield not just a care home, but a true family home
Inglefield resident enjoys a flower sensory activity
THE IMPORTANCE OF EXERCISE AS WE AGE: SUPPORTING RESIDENTS’ HEALTH AND
MOBILITY
As we age, keeping active plays a crucial role in maintaining our independence, flexibility, and overall health Yet, it’s easy for muscles and joints to weaken if they aren’t used regularly – in fact, it can happen in just a matter of weeks At Buckland Care we understand this and have integrated a variety of enjoyable, accessible, and age-appropriate exercises into the daily lives of its residents Through our thoughtful and compassionate approach, we support residents in staying active, engaged, and healthy
Why Staying Active Matters in Older Age
Regular exercise is important at every stage of life, but it’s especially essential as we get older. Staying active helps preserve strength, balance, and mobility, which are vital for independent living. Without regular movement, the body’s natural deterioration of muscle and bone density can accelerate, leading to reduced flexibility and increased risk of falls. Physical activity also benefits mental well-being, providing social interaction, purpose, and joy – all critical to the quality of life
At Buckland Care we recognise the transformative impact of exercise and has made it a priority to offer activities that promote both physical and mental health for their residents By incorporating a wide range of tailored movement-based options, we cater to the varying needs,have abilities, and interests of our residents
Innovative and Engaging Activities to Suit All Abilities
Exercise at Buckland Care is not only accessible but also enjoyable The homes offer a broad range of activities that make movement a regular and fun part of residents’ routines Residents have the chance to enjoy gentle walks in beautifully maintained gardens or go on day trips to explore the local community These activities encourage engagement with nature and surroundings, bringing a sense of freedom and vitality
For those who love music and social interaction, dancing and singing sessions are organised regularly, creating a lively and heart-warming atmosphere. One of the most popular options is chair-based exercise, which is especially beneficial for residents with limited mobility. With options such as chair football, chair cycling, and chair volleyball, these exercises add a playful element that encourages participation and laughter.
Kingland House Tai Chi Sessions
Kingland House, is going a step further in offering tai chi as part of its weekly activities Tai chi, a gentle practice that combines slow, controlled movements with deep breathing, is well-known for its benefits in promoting balance, flexibility, and relaxation By adding tai chi to the activity roster, Kingland House provides residents with a mindful, low-impact form of exercise that focuses on balance, reducing the risk of falls and improving overall coordination Tai Chi also has a calming effect on the mind, helping to reduce stress and enhance mental clarity.
Supporting Well-Being Through Thoughtful Exercise
Our commitment to supporting residents’ physical health, mental well-being, and social engagement through exercise reflects our holistic approach to care. From structured classes to spontaneous garden walks, every activity is carefully chosen to offer enjoyment and meaningful health benefits The residents of our Buckland Care Homes are encouraged to keep moving at a pace that’s comfortable and enjoyable for them, whether it’s by practicing tai chi, participating in chair exercises, or simply enjoying a stroll outdoors With a compassionate approach and a dedication to enriching the lives of residents, we continue to set the standard for care that promotes well-being at every stage of life
Some Kingland House residents partaking in Tai Chi
FUNDRAISING EFFORTS
BLACKWATER MILL GOES PURPLE FOR PANCREATIC CANCER AWARENESS
At Blackwater Mill, care and compassion extend beyond the everyday Last week, the team donned their best purple attire to mark Pancreatic Cancer Awareness and raise vital funds for this important cause
The day was brimming with activities, bringing together residents, staff, and visitors in a vibrant and meaningful celebration The highlight of the event was a raffle tombola, which created plenty of excitement and camaraderie. Adding a touch of sweetness to the occasion, the kitchen team outdid themselves with an array of purple-themed cakes, enjoyed by all who attended.
The event not only raised funds but also fostered a sense of togetherness and purpose, reminding everyone of the power of community in driving awareness and change. The team at Blackwater Mill would like to express their deepest gratitude to all who contributed to this special day, helping make a difference in the fight against pancreatic cancer
Together, we can make an impact
FUNDRAISING EFFORTS WILLOW BANK HOSTS DEMENTIA AWARENESS TALK AND CHARITY AUCTION
Willow Bank Care Home proudly hosted a heartwarming dementia awareness event, supported by Pershore Town FC and community advocate Jordan Adams. Jordan, a former captain of the football club, courageously shared his personal journey with a rare genetic condition likely to lead to Frontotemporal Dementia. His mission to raise £1 million for Alzheimer’s Research UK has inspired many.
The event saw a fantastic turnout, with attendees keen to learn, reduce stigma, and support dementia research Paul, Willow Bank’s Dementia and Wellbeing Lead, delivered an insightful talk, emphasising, “Knowledge is powerful – when we work together, we can truly make a difference” We’re grateful for the support of Pershore Town FC, Jordan, and our local community
Together, through awareness and fundraising, we’re helping create a future where no family faces dementia alone
Manager Natalie and the dedicated team at Blackwater Mill proudly wearing purple
Wellbeing Lead at Willow Bank Paul with the president of Pershore Town FC, Jackie
RESIDENTS AT THE FIRS BRING FESTIVE CHEER WITH HEARTFELT ‘BAG OF HOPE’ CAMPAIGN
The festive season is here, and residents at The Firs are embracing the true spirit of Christmas with a heartwarming initiative to support their local community Following last year’s success with the Christmas Shoebox Appeal, the residents were keen to continue their tradition of giving, this time joining the “Give a Bag of Hope” campaign
The campaign encourages people to fill bags with thoughtful gifts for those in need over the festive season The ladies at The Firs threw themselves into the project, spending a delightful afternoon packing bags with a variety of treats and essentials From cosy gloves to delicious chocolates and comforting toiletries, every item was chosen with care and packed with love, ready to bring joy to local families this Christmas.
“It’s such a wonderful feeling to know these small gestures will make a big difference to someone’s Christmas,” shared one resident. “Taking part has really filled our hearts with warmth.”
Home Manager Nikki said, “Seeing the residents come together for such a meaningful cause is incredibly inspiring. Their kindness and generosity truly reflect the spirit of the season, and we’re so proud to play a part in supporting our local community”
The ‘Give a Bag of Hope’ campaign has not only provided the residents with a sense of purpose
and joy but also highlights The Firs’ commitment to reaching out and making apositive difference beyond the care home.
This Christmas, The Firs is more than a home it’s a beacon of kindness, spreading cheer and hope to those who need it most.
CELEBRATING SUCCESS AT THE ORCHARDS: NIKA’S
ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT
We are excited to share that Nika, one of our Deputy Managers at The Orchards, has successfully completed her Foundation Degree in Science in Health and Social Care
This achievement reflects Nika’s dedication and passion for advancing her knowledge and skills in health and social care Balancing work while studying is no small feat, and she has done it with determination Her new expertise will enhance the exceptional care and leadership she already provides, inspiring her colleagues and highlighting the value of continuous learning
Well done, Nika! We are all incredibly proud of you and look forward to seeing your continued success
Residents at The Firs proudly showcase their ‘Bag of Hope’ care packages, ready to spread holiday cheer to those in need
ACTIVITIES CORNER
HARTWELL LODGE RESIDENTS CRAFT BEAUTIFUL REMEMBRANCE WREATHS
Earlier this year in November, residents at Hartwell Lodge came together for a heartfelt Remembrance wreath-making activity With green wool in hand, everyone joined in wrapping the wreath bases, creating the perfect foundation for their stunning poppy designs
The crafting session was a beautiful way to reflect, remember, and connect Laughter and stories were shared as residents worked side by side, highlighting the power of creative activities in fostering a sense of belonging and purpose
The finished wreaths proudly adorned the home, serving as a touching tribute and a reminder of the importance of togetherness
ACTIVITIES CORNER
WILLOW BANK RESIDENTS UPLIFTED BY THOUGHTFUL MUSIC DONATION
As shared in our last quarterly newsletter, Purple Angel Music generously donated MP3 players preloaded with personalised music for residents with dementia at Willow Bank The positive effects were immediate, with residents experiencing joy, engagement, and emotional connection through familiar tunes
With research highlighting music’s mental health benefits, Willow Bank is embracing more musical activities to enhance residents' wellbeing
Watch resident Benny rocking out to Buddy Holly on his Purple Angel Music MP3 player proof that music truly lifts the spirit!
Hartwell residents crafting wreaths with care and proudly displaying their beautiful poppy creations in a heartfelt Remembrance tribute
LIFE IN FULL BLOOM: HOW ACTIVITIES ACROSS OUR CARE HOMES FOSTER INDEPENDENCE AND PURPOSE
At all of our Buckland Care homes, fostering independence and a sense of purpose is central to daily life Residents across our homes engage in meaningful activities that spark joy, revive fond memories, and create a true sense of belonging
Creating a Sense of Home
At Woodland Court, familiar tasks like helping with the laundry go beyond being everyday chores they offer comfort and a sense of achievement, particularly for residents living with dementia “Doing familiar activities gives them a sense of purpose and home,” explains manager Samantha Richardson In the garden, residents have also been planting winter shrubs with a little help from Pippa, the home’s much-loved dog, making gardening sessions even more enjoyable
Cooking and Baking Adventures
The kitchen has been bustling at Mulberry House, where residents have taken the lead in preparing their own meals From making pizzas to baking cakes, everyone gets involved. Pat, one of the residents, enjoys setting the table each evening, proud to contribute to the home’s daily routine.
At Hartwell Lodge, residents recently celebrated American Strawberry Pie Day by baking their own strawberry turnovers, taking extra care to wash up before decorating their delicious creations. Meanwhile, The Firs was filled with the mouth-watering aroma of Banana & Chocolate and Cherry & Almond cupcakes, as residents eagerly explored new recipes
Mulberry House also marked World Food Day with an exciting bake-off Residents baked, tasted, and scored three different creations Mary and Summer took first place with a winning score of 83!
Creative and Community Spirit
Gardening remains a beloved pastime across many of our homes Residents enjoy planting bulbs and watching their hard work blossom in the home's gardens, creating vibrant outdoor spaces for everyone to enjoy
At The Orchards, creativity took centre stage as residents crafted large-scale props for an upcoming show
Mulberry House resident takes part in a Bake Off to mark World Food Day
Many of our homes also focused on making seasonal decorations, allowing residents to contribute to the look and feel of their living spaces while expressing their creativity
At Hartwell Lodge, residents with a history of flower arranging for local churches have been creating stunning table centrepieces, reconnecting with skills that bring back treasured memories
Giving Back
Charitable craft projects also play a vital role, enabling residents to continue making a positive impact on the wider community Whether through crafting, gardening, baking, or lending a hand with everyday tasks, these activities inspire a renewed sense of independence and purpose
Across all our care homes, we believe that age is no barrier to being creative, useful, and valued These special moments remind us that small, meaningful activities can have a powerful impact on wellbeing, happiness, and community spirit
A FESTIVE VISIT FROM ENTERTAINER TERRY AT WEST BANK
West Bank was filled with music, joy, and festive cheer as residents and staff enjoyed a lively performance from entertainer Terry His upbeat tunes and infectious energy turned an ordinary afternoon into a magical celebration
From classic sing-alongs to toe-tapping festive favourites, Terry had everyone on their feet Residents and staff joined together, dancing, clapping, and singing along with smiles all around The room buzzed with energy as people twirled and swayed to the music, sharing moments of fun and connection
Music and movement play a crucial role in all of our Buckland Care homes, offering both physical and emotional benefits Dancing helps improve mobility, balance, and coordination, while music stimulates memory and lifts spirits. These joyful activities create opportunities for social interaction, fostering a sense of belonging and togetherness.
“Terry definitely had us all dancing today!” shared one resident.
It was a heartwarming afternoon that highlighted the power of music and community
SPOTLIGHT ON A TEAM MEMBER
Paul Chambers Wellbeing Lead Willow Bank
Why did you want to join the team at Willow Bank as Wellbeing Lead?
I wanted to join the team as Wellbeing and Activities Lead at Willow Bank because I have a deep passion for dementia care and raising awareness about the condition Throughout my career, I have been involved in roles that touched on various aspects of wellbeing and care, but I was particularly drawn to this position because of its strong focus on supporting individuals living with dementia I believe that meaningful activities and personalised wellbeing programmes can make a significant difference in enhancing the quality of life for residents
How are you settling into the home so far?
It already feels like I’ve been part of the team and home much longer than I actually have I’ve built strong relationships with the staff, residents, and their families, as well as with the wider community for mutual support Some of the most rewarding moments at Willow Bank have been organising the Dementia Café, hosting quizzes, seeing the residents’ smiles, enjoying singing and dancing, and having families actively involved
What are your ambitions for the home?
Our goal is to become the best dementia care home in Worcestershire and achieve a perfect 10 rating on carehomecouk We aim to champion the home by increasing dementia awareness across generations through partnerships with schools, support groups, and community events, while also providing informative dementia talks
Resident and staff at West Bank on their feet dancing with Terry
ALPACA VISIT BRINGS JOY TO
HOUSE
Some residents saying hello and str
Residents at Kingland House Care Home were delighted by some very special visitors a pair of woolly alpacas! The gentle animals brought joy and excitement as residents eagerly gathered to meet, stroke, and spend time with their curious new friends The visit created heartwarming moments filled with smiles, laughter, and lasting memories
Animal interaction plays a significant role in supporting the emotional and physical well-being of older adults Being around animals can reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and increase feelings of happiness and comfort For residents living with dementia, animal visits often trigger positive memories, providing a calming and reassuring experience.
“I never thought I’d have the chance to meet an alpaca! They were so soft and gentle it made my day. It’s wonderful to have something different to look forward to,” shared one resident with a beaming smile.
Another resident added, “They looked so elegant and curious. I loved giving them a little stroke and just being close to them It’s not every day you get to meet an alpaca!”
The alpacas’ visit was part of Kingland House’s commitment to offering unique and engaging activities that spark joy and connection Their calm and friendly nature made them the perfect guests, providing comfort and lifting spirits throughout their stay
j y y g
like this are all about creating special moments and giving our residents something to smile about”
Animal-assisted activities like the alpaca visit are part of Kingland House’s ongoing commitment to providing residents with engaging and
BRUNSWICK HOUSE SPREADS
FESTIVE CELEBRATIONS
Earlier in December, Brunswic with the spirit of Christmas as staff, and their families enj heartwarming festive events
Everyone gathered to watch a of the pantomime Puss in B festive season, many homes lik host pantomimes and simi bringing joy and excitement t events provide entertainment mind, encourages social interac lively atmosphere The show bro joy, creating treasured memorie their loved ones The classic t humour and charm, was a high Christmas calendar
The festivities continued with the Residents’ Christmas Party Guests enjoyed music, delicious refreshments, and plenty of festive cheer The event brought together families, friends, and the wider community, fostering a sense of connection and celebration
“Christmas is always a special time at Brunswick House, and these events are a wonderful way to bring people together,” said Karen, Home Manager “Seeing the smiles and joy on everyone’s faces is what the season is all about”
Events like these create lasting memories and strengthen the sense of community among residents, staff, and families
Puss in Bo
RECIPES OF THE SEASON
CHRISTMAS SAUSAGE PLAIT
FROM HARTWELL LODGE
For the rough puff pastry
125ml cold water
250g plain flour
2 tsp lemon juice
100g cold butter, cut into 1cm cubes
50g cold lard, cut into 1cm cubes
For the filling
300g sausage meat
1 tsp salt
½ tsp chilli flakes
1 orange, grated zest only small bunch sage, finely chopped
1 free-range egg, beaten 200g cranberry sauce, to serve
METHOD
Step 1: For the rough puff pastry, mix together the water, flour and lemon juice in a bowl until they come together Tip out onto a floured
surface and knead for 5 minutes until smooth and pliable Cover with cling film and leave to relax for 10 minutes
Step 2: Roll the dough out on a lightly floured surface to a 15x45cm/6x18in rectangle Try to keep the edges as straight as possible – this will make it easier to fold
Step 3: Take the cold fats out of the fridge and arrange them at random on the rolled out dough covering two-thirds of the surface, leaving a 15cm/6in square piece free
Step 4: Fold the uncovered piece of pastry over, so it covers half of the fat-covered pastry and press the edges down Fold these two layers of pastry over the remaining piece to form a square consisting of three layers of pastry separating two layers of fat
Step 5: Turn the pastry 90 degrees and roll out again to 45x15cm/18x6in, fold back into a square as before, cover with cling film and put in the fridge to cool for at least 20 minutes This is one turn
Step 6: Meanwhile for the filling, mix the sausage-meat thoroughly in a bowl with the salt, chilli flakes, orange zest and sage Roll into a ball, coat with flour to stop it sticking and set aside
Step 7: Take the chilled pastry out of the fridge and roll, fold and turn twice as before Wrap in cling film and return to the fridge for another 20 minutes to firm up again
Step 8: Preheat the oven to 220C/200C Fan/Gas 7 and line a large baking tray with parchment paper
Step 9: Lightly flour a work surface and roll out the sausage-meat to a 60cm/24in long sausage Set aside
Step 10: Flour the work surface again and quickly roll out the ch the centre of the pastry and brush a 2cm strip of beaten egg alo pastry over the sausage meat until you have one 60cm long sau
Step 11: Shape the sausage roll into a circle, making sure to keep sheet Use a little more egg to stick the two ends together
Step 12: Using kitchen scissors cut 16 sausage rolls, leaving the i connected, creating a wreath shape Liberally egg wash the wh of times on each sausage roll
Step 13: Bake in the oven for 25-30 minutes, until golden-brown sauce in the middle of the wreath
RECIPES OF THE SEASON
DOUBLE CHOCOLATE COCA
FROM THE FIRS
IINGREDIENTS
1 cup Coca Cola (real thing, not diet)
1/2 cup of oil
3 tablespoons cocoa
2 cups sugar
2 cups flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 eggs
1/2 cup buttermilk
METHOD
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon vanilla
FROSTING
1 stick butter
3 tablespoon cocoa
6 tablespoon of cream or milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3 x 3/4 cups of confectioner’s sugar
Step 1: In a saucepan, mix Coca Cola, oil, butter and cocoa and bring to boil
Step 2: In another bowl combine sugar, flour and salt
Step 3: Pour the boiling Coca Cola mixture over the flour mixture and beat well
Step 4: Add the eggs, buttermilk, soda and vanilla and beat well
Step 5: Pour mixture into a greased and floured 13x9 inch baking tin and bake at 350 degrees for 20 -25 mins
Step 6: Whilst cooling, combine butter, cocoa and milk in a sauacepan and heat until butter melts
Step 7: Beat in the remaining ingredients and spread on the cake
A 101ST BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION AT KINGLAND HOUSE
The team at Kingland House Residential Home recently had the privilege of celebrating a remarkable milestone for one of their cherished residents, Gillian Margaret Lewis, who turned an incredible 101 years old!
The celebration was brimming with joy as residents, staff, and Gillian’s family came together to honour her life and legacy A lively rendition of ‘Happy Birthday’ filled the room, followed by a toast with bubbly to mark the special occasion
Gillian, with her signature warmth and humour, quipped, “I just must go as I am - staying fit, strong, and healthy!”
Born in London, Gillian has lived a fascinating life filled with adventure, hard work, and love. She dedicated over 24 years as a civil servant and served 4 and a half years in the Army as a shorthand typist, making invaluable contributions during a pivotal time in history. Gillian’s love of cars and driving has been a defining passion throughout her life. She’s owned many cars over the years and continues to show a keen interest, though perhaps with a little less zeal Known for her inspiring positivity and quick wit, Gillian loves long chats, leaving those around her uplifted by her charm and wisdom
BUCKLAND IN BLOOM
Get ready to see Buckland Care blossom this March as all our homes come together for Buckland in Bloom! Residents, families, and team members will roll up their sleeves to create stunning floral displays and bring vibrant colour to our gardens.
Whether it’s planting cheerful spring flowers, designing creative planters, or simply enjoying the beauty of nature, there’s something for everyone to join in and celebrate the season.
More details will be shared soon, so watch this space!
“Celebrating Gillian’s 101st birthday was a truly special moment for all of us,” shared the team at Kingland House.
“She’s a wonderful part of our Kingland family, and it was an absolute privilege to honour this incredible milestone with her”
At Kingland House , every resident’s individuality and achievements are celebrated with heartfelt care and attention The team takes pride in creating moments like these that bring the community together and highlight the unique stories of their residents
UPCOMING EVENTS
SPEND CHRISTMAS DAY WITH YOUR LOVED ONE IN ONE OF OUR HOMES
Christmas is a time for togetherness, joy, and making cherished memories with loved ones
We are delighted to invite all friends and relatives of our residents to join us for a festive Christmas Day meal at one of our homes
Celebrate the Festive Spirit Together
Sharing a meal on Christmas Day is a special way to connect, laugh, and enjoy the warmth of the season Our homes will be filled with holiday cheer, delicious traditional fare, and the company of those who matter most
How to Join Us
To ensure we can accommodate you comfortably, please let the home administrator
know as soon as possible if you plan to attend Booking ahead helps us prepare a magical experience for all Please not this is subject to availability for each home
The Gift of Presence
Spending time together can uplift spirits, strengthen family bonds, and create joyful memories Being surrounded by familiar faces brings comfort and happiness, making Christmas truly special
We look forward to welcoming you for a heartwarming celebration filled with love, laughter, and festive treats Let’s make this Christmas Day unforgettable!
A HEARTFELT LOOK BACK: HIGHLIGHTS FROM OUR CARE HOMES THIS YEAR
As the year comes to a close, we take a moment to reflect on the wonderful experiences shared across our Buckland Care Homes in 2024 It has been a year filled with joy, togetherness, and unforgettable memories
Memorable Moments
Our residents enjoyed a variety of fun outings, from trips to the seaside and countryside walks to museum visits and picnics in the park Creative arts sessions, music performances, and themed celebrations brought endless entertainment and smiles to everyone involved
Halloween was a spooky delight, with residents and staff dressing up, carving pumpkins, and enjoying festive games Remembrance Sunday was marked with heartfelt ceremonies and beautifully crafted tributes created by our talented residents
Special birthdays were celebrated in style with cakes, decorations, and heartwarming gatherings of family and friends. Every milestone was a special reminder of the cherished lives that make our homes so vibrant.
Exciting Highlights
Throughout the year, many of our homes introduced new features and activities to enhance daily life.
A peaceful sensory garden designed for relaxation and sensory stimulation became a favourite retreat for many residents at West Bank
Visits from friendly animals, including dogs, alpacas, sheep, and even miniature ponies, brought joy and unforgettable moments across all of our homes These special additions, along with a variety of activities, have created countless opportunities for connection, engagement, and fun
As we look back on these special memories, we are reminded of the love, care, and community spirit that define Buckland Care Homes We look forward to creating even more treasured experiences in the year ahead
Watch the Year in Review! Scan the QR code below to enjoy a special video compilation showcasing these heartwarming highlights from all our homes.
