At the Essex Care Sector Awards known as “The Prospers” on 26th November, Corner Lodge was named the winner in the Activities and Wellbeing category. Over 100 care homes from throughout Essex were nominated in this category and the home feels honoured to have been recognised for taking a proactive approach to improving the wellbeing of its residents through meaningful activities that are person centred. Creating a compassionate environment where individuals are engaged, stimulated, and fulfilled.

Corner Lodge’s philosophy to activities and wellbeing is summed up in the phrase “Feelings Matter the Most,” their culture is one where they look to engage the residents in their care. Amongst all the usual activities that take place in the home, such as memory work, games, and outside entertainers they have also introduced:

• Activity Belts for the staff in which they carry photos of their families and pets and small trinkets to engage the residents in conversation and breaking down the boundaries that oftentimes emotionally separate residents and staff. 
• Monthly themes such as “Make Somebody Laugh” where the whole home spends the month telling jokes and funny stories.
• “Walk for All Seasons” gets people outside with winter walks becoming a regular feature, focusing on the changing seasons.
• Monthly themed fancy-dress days where residents, staff, and visitors dress as pirates, clowns, storybook characters, and have all spent a day in pyjamas and slippers.  

What struck the judges the most of all was the home’s innovative train carriage. An immersive reminiscence activity area where residents can board the train, complete with ticket, and have afternoon tea whilst on the Orient Express! The train features two video screens made to look like windows with the countryside racing by as the train journeys along.

Everyone at Corner Lodge works to maintain a professional service where everyone is treated with kindness, dignity, and respect in a fun atmosphere.

The directors of Care Fulfilment Ltd (parent company of Corner Lodge), Rahul Jagota and Sanjay Jagota, and Regional Director, Ethna Claridge, offer their congratulations to Millie Simalova, Corner Lodge Manager, and staff for their enthusiastic dedication to the residents in their care.