Keeping Life Active and Fun at Bradbury House Residential Home

I’ve been part of Bradbury House for 15 years now, and it still feels more like family than work. I first joined as Catering Supervisor, then moved into Administration, and today I’m proud to be Facilities Manager. The people, both residents and staff, are what’s kept me here for so long. We’ve built a real sense of belonging, and that shines through in everything we do. This is especially true when it comes to helping our residents to do things that matter to them.

How We Plan Activities

I oversee our activities team, which is made up of three brilliant activity workers. Between them, they cover five days a week, making sure there’s always something going on. Together, we compile an annual activities calendar with the bigger events, day trips, and shopping outings. On quieter days, the team focuses on the individual needs of residents, maybe a sensory session, some gentle exercise, a game of dominoes, or even a hand massage and a chat.

Everything we do is person-centred. It’s all based on what’s important to individuals. The activity workers go around, talk to residents about what they’d like to do, and record it all in their care plans. That way, we can make sure everyone’s choices and interests are respected, whether it’s joining in a group activity or enjoying something quieter one-on-one.

What Residents Love Most

Right now, a real favourite is boccia, a Paralympic sport similar to bowls. We had a resident introduce it because they’d played it competitively before! Baking and movie days are always popular too, as are trips out when we can arrange them. We’ve been to the theatre, the petting zoo, and we love tying activities to themes like Chinese New Year or British Food Fortnight.

We also make sure to celebrate together with bigger events like our summer family BBQ, Christmas parties, bingo nights, and coffee mornings. Family and friends are always welcome to join, and fundraising events, like our bake sales and charity days, are something residents really enjoy, especially when they’re supporting causes that matter to them.

Why It Matters

The activities aren’t just “something to do”, they’re essential for residents’ wellbeing. They keep life exciting, spark interaction, and give people the chance to try something different. For many, these moments bring a sense of purpose and joy, and they help build the community spirit that makes Bradbury House so special.

Christmas Party Day is always a highlight. This year it is being held on a Saturday so even more families will be able to join us, and we’re already planning a big buffet and a singer to make it extra special.

For me, the best part of the job is supporting residents and making sure they have the best experience possible. People at Bradbury House have high needs: many residents use a wheelchair full-time or require extra support. Creating opportunities with people to help them enjoy life is incredibly rewarding. Over the years, I’ve built strong bonds with so many people. . When you see someone every day, it’s hard not to. Those relationships are what make this work so meaningful.

Looking Ahead

We’ve got lots to look forward to. Coming up soon are Halloween celebrations, the Diwali Festival of Light, pantomimes, and even an event at Bishop Auckland Castle that a resident specifically requested. Those moments, when residents’ ideas come to life, are always the most special.

My advice to other homes or events workers would be: listen to your residents. Ask them what they want, plan ahead, and don’t be afraid to get creative. There are so many opportunities out there if you research and organise, and fundraising or donations can make a big difference in opening up more possibilities.

At the end of the day, it’s all about giving people the best experiences we can, keeping life full of variety, and making sure every resident feels seen, valued, and part of our Bradbury House family.