Plas Y Dderwen Care Home

04/09/2025

⭐ LaingBuisson 2025 Award Finalist ⭐

We’re delighted to announce that we’ve been shortlisted for the ‘Care Home Group of the Year’ category at the prestigious LaingBuisson Awards.

Now in their 20th year, the awards recognise and celebrate outstanding achievements in the UK health and social care industry.

With more than 400 entries submitted across each category, being named a finalist is a real honour.

This recognition is a true reflection of the dedication, hard work and compassion of all our teams and colleagues across Barchester – a big thank you for everything they do each day! 👏

The winners will be announced on the 20th November 2025 at Park Plaza Westminster Bridge, London.

LaingBuisson LaingBuisson News

03/09/2025

✨🎭 Bringing the Fringe to Strachan House ✨🎵

Residents, families and visitors at Strachan House Care Home in enjoyed an afternoon of fantastic performances as part of the Edinburgh Fringe Care Fest.

Now in its third year, the Fringe Care Fest brings the magic of the Fringe directly to care home residents who can no longer visit the festival venues.

Talented singer and pianist Jacqui Randa warmed up the crowd with her excellent keyboard skills and cheeky anecdotes. After a short break for more prosecco in the sun, everyone relaxed to the wonderful voice of Duane Forrest.

It was an amazing experience, complete with a special party menu from the home’s kitchen team, plenty of drinks – and of course, lots of dancing.

A big thank you to all involved in making this event such a success. 👏

02/09/2025

⭐ A Perfect 10! ⭐

We’re thrilled to share that Iverley View Care Home in has received a 10 out of 10 score on the independent care home reviews site, carehome.co.uk, after a series of glowing reviews.

This fantastic achievement places Iverley View 7th out of 7,238 care homes across England and 1st in their county.

A big thank you to the team who work incredibly hard to provide the highest standard of care and support to residents and their families. Truly well deserved. 👏

.co.uk

29/08/2025

Fruity Friday Fun! 🍎🍌🍇

Today was packed with variety and plenty of laughter!🍇✨️🍇✨️🍇

We started the morning with “What’s in the News?” where residents reflected on headlines from the 1970s and compared them with stories from today. This sparked some wonderful discussions and memories.🥭✨️🥭✨️🥭

In the afternoon, we introduced a brand-new game: Whack a Staff! Our residents had a hilarious time giving staff a gentle “whack” with pool noodles in this human twist on Whack-a-Mole. There was lots of laughter all round (and thankfully no sore heads!).🍌✨️🍌✨️🍌

To round off the day, we held a fruity sensory session. Residents explored different fruits using their senses—describing their look, feel, smell, and taste. Of course, the highlight was enjoying the delicious fruit! 😋✨️🍇✨️

For more information on life at our home please visit https://www.barchester.com/home/plas-y-dderwen-care-home

Barchester Healthcare

29/08/2025

🐾 Residents Welcome Furry Friends 🐾

Our care homes and hospitals recently marked National Dog Day in style by hosting a range of activities for all to enjoy, including dog shows, pet therapy sessions and community events.

From four-legged companions to wagging tails and friendly competitions, it was a wonderful day that brought joy and smiles to everyone.

Take a look at some of our favourite moments. ✨

28/08/2025

Yesterday morning we introduced a brand-new game called “Donald, Where’s Your Trousers?”—inspired by a couple of our Scottish residents who had been singing the tune with us all week! The idea of the game was to throw balls for the activities team, who were dressed up in wide-bellied trousers ready to catch them. It had everyone in stitches, and the room was filled with laughter from start to finish. The residents absolutely loved the new look of the activities team and joined in with great enthusiasm.✨️💓✨️

In the afternoon, we joined other Barchester homes for Barchester’s Bingo Bonanza. Everyone had their dabbers at the ready and spirits were high as the numbers were called. It was a lively, fun-filled session with plenty of smiles and a few close shouts of “Bingo!” all round ✨️💓✨️

For more information on life at our home please visit https://www.barchester.com/home/plas-y-dderwen-care-home

Barchester Healthcare

27/08/2025

⭐ Champions of Care: The Care Quality Leaders Network ⭐

We’re delighted to share that Sue Sheath, our Director of Regulation and Quality Improvement, has been featured in this month’s Caring Times magazine for her work founding the Care Quality Leaders Network.

In June, the network held its first face-to-face conference entitled ‘Innovating Care Quality: Leadership in Action’ in London, bringing together colleagues from across the adult social care sector.

What began as a small group of providers meeting informally before the pandemic has grown under Sue’s leadership into a thriving network of over 90 organisations – from large operators to mid-sized and smaller providers nationwide – all united by a shared commitment to champion high-quality care.

Sue commented: “I am so proud of how this group has grown over the last five years into an incredible supportive network with real influence. I was keen to create an opportunity for the group to meet face to face to hear from some of the biggest names in the sector about the challenges and opportunities we face and share ideas and best practice. I would like to thank all our generous partners such as Radar Healthcare, Care Launch and Nourish Care, who made this event possible.”

We’re so proud of Sue for her hard work in creating this fantastic network and for running such a successful event that brought together so many excellent minds! 👏

26/08/2025

Balloon tennis🎈🎈🎈—what can I say?

We had such a fun afternoon together!

The room was filled with laughter as we tried to keep up with the balloons—🎈🎈🎈there were so many in play it was hard to know which one to hit next.

Every time I turned around, it seemed like the pool noodles had a mind of their own and somehow managed to bop me! We had an absolute blast, and afterwards everyone relaxed with a well-deserved cup of tea, biscuits and cake! 🎈🎈🎈

For more information on life at our home please visit https://www.barchester.com/home/plas-y-dderwen-care-home

26/08/2025

📸 World Photography Day 🌟

Recently, residents and patients up and down the country celebrated World Photography Day with flair and creativity.

Throughout the day, everyone enjoyed a range of themed activities and art sessions, from crafting photo books and collages to participating in professional photoshoots and capturing images of their favourite objects and subjects.

It was also a wonderful opportunity for all to reflect on past experiences by looking at treasured photographs and sharing happy memories.

Take a look at some of our favourite moments.

25/08/2025

✨ Let’s Get Quizzical! ✨

Monday afternoons are quiz time – and our residents never fail to bring their A-game! This fast-paced challenge keeps everyone on their toes, with the quickest person to shout the answer scooping up the point. The only rule? Have fun !✨️

The questions had something for everyone – from general knowledge and farming, to history and even a little maths thrown in to spice things up. After a slow start, our brilliant Mr G (Geraint) pulled it out of the bag, claiming victory by just two points over John. He was as surprised as the rest of us – proving it’s never over until the last question’s asked!

A huge well done to all our quizzers who keep the room buzzing and make sure I, the quizmaster, am working harder than anyone. Thankfully, they haven’t started quizzing the quizzer… yet! 🎉

For more information on life at our home please visit https://www.barchester.com/home/plas-y-dderwen-care-home

24/08/2025

Yesterday afternoon we were delighted to welcome our dear friend Robbie Lee back to our Memory Lane community. He filled the room with music, laughter, reminiscence – and of course, plenty of his trademark bad jokes! 🎶😂

Our residents loved every moment, singing and swaying along, with some even getting up to dance. Colin summed it up perfectly when he said, “I thoroughly, thoroughly, thoroughly enjoyed that – and I shook the man’s hand to thank him.”🎶✨️🎶

A big thank you to Robbie for giving us such a joyful afternoon. We can’t wait to have you back again in October 🎶✨️🎶

For more information on life at our home please visit https://www.barchester.com/home/plas-y-dderwen-care-home

Barchester Healthcare

22/08/2025

✨️✨️✨️FRIDAY FUNDAY✨️✨️✨️

We had such a lovely day today. The morning started with music and movement, which really lifted everyone’s spirits and set us up for the day. Afterwards, we enjoyed some pamper sessions, with residents choosing what suited them best — from hand and leg massages to having their hair washed and blow dried in the salon, to fingernail painting. It was so nice to see everyone relaxing and enjoying a bit of one-to-one attention.

In the afternoon, we gathered in Gwili community for a sing-along. The atmosphere was full of laughter, smiles, and great energy as residents joined in with a variety of songs. It was clear how much everyone enjoyed themselves, and a few residents told us what a difference it made to their day. Freda summed it up perfectly when she said, “You have really made my day! Thank you.”

For more information on life at our home please visit https://www.barchester.com/home/plas-y-dderwen-care-home

Barchester Healthcare

22/08/2025

✨🏍️ Speedway Wish Granted 🏍️✨

This week, the team at Hickathrift House Care Home in was delighted to grant another special wish through their ‘Post a Wish’ initiative – a visit to the King's Lynn Speedway - the Home of the Stars.

It was a fantastic experience, with riders kindly taking time to chat and reminisce with a resident about past races and bikes. The Speedway team ensured the evening was special, welcoming everyone on arrival and making the visit unforgettable.

Residents truly enjoyed sitting in the front row, cheering on the riders and sharing stories of speedway events gone by.

A big thank you to all involved in making this trip possible. 👏

King's Lynn Stars

21/08/2025

🤩 Adventure Day Out for Mortain Place Residents 🤩

Residents at Mortain Place Care Home in enjoyed an unforgettable day at Knockhatch Adventure Park.

From speeding around the go-kart track and meeting extraordinary animals to splashing down the water slides, it was a day full of fun.

To make the trip even more special, residents and colleagues were joined by Malcolm from ITV News Meridian, who captured the excitement on camera and spoke to the residents about their experiences.

The team at Mortain Place believe days like this are an important way to enrich the lives of residents, creating lasting memories for all involved.

Take a look at the fantastic broadcast coverage below! 👇

Watch the latest from ITV News - Barchester Mortain Place in Eastbourne takes its residents on day trips to an adventure park with activities such as go-karting and water slides

21/08/2025

Photo Catch Up ... Here are some of the Activities that have taken place over the last couple of weeks.

Blackberry picking from our garden turned out to be a fun activity!

We also headed out on our minibus to the beach, local Curiositea Cafe and community bingo!

19/08/2025

🦆📚 A Quacking Good Story from Atfield House 📚🦆

We’re excited to share that Atfield House Care Home in , London has launched their very own children’s storybook, inspired by a much-loved tradition and their nature-loving residents.

Each year, a duck named Hope visits the home’s garden to lay her eggs – a heart-warming event that has been taking place for many years. The experience sparks engagement, evokes memories and offers meaningful comfort to residents, supporting emotional and cognitive wellbeing with every quiet waddle.

After speaking with residents, families and colleagues, the team decided to capture the tale in a beautifully illustrated book.
The home looks forward to sharing the storybook with visitors and children from local schools – a great opportunity to spread the joy of this charming tradition.

You can explore their delightful storybook here 👇https://online.flippingbook.com/view/503801204/

18/08/2025

🏃‍♂️🏅 Great North Run - Marathon Effort for Charity 🏃‍♀️🏅

On Sunday, 7th September, five brave Barchester colleagues will take on the gruelling Great North Run to raise money for Barchester’s Charitable Foundation.

The Foundation supports older people and adults living with a disability by helping them connect or re-connect with others in their local communities.

Our amazing runners are:
• Becky Dearing, Health and Safety Coordinator
• Kirsty Taylor, Activities Lead at Chalfont Lodge Care Centre - Barchester Healthcare
• Zsuszanna Bodog, Care Assistant from Red Oaks Care Home - Barchester Healthcare
• Tom Hodges, Dementia Nurse Specialist for the North West and Midlands
• Yvonne Hand, General Manager at Glenroyd Care Home - Barchester Healthcare

They will lace-up their trainers and use grit and determination to complete the 13-mile half marathon course that starts in Newcastle upon Tyne and takes thousands of runners over the iconic Tyne Bridge in order to raise funds for Barchester's Charitable Foundation.

Wishing the very best of luck to the runners! 👏

13/08/2025

🎤🎵 Come Sing! To Feel Good 🎤🎵

Residents and patients across the country had a fantastic time joining Dan Cooper, Vocal Coach from Biiah, for a lively summer virtual sing-along.

With the uplifting ‘Que Sera Sera’ by Doris Day and ‘Wouldn’t It Be Nice’ by The Beach Boys, there was plenty of singing and dancing all around.

The session was a great success, bringing benefits for the mind, body and soul, and leaving everyone with a dose of summer cheer.

A big thank you to Dan Cooper for the wonderful experience. 👏

Take a look at some of our favourite moments in the photos below.

🔗 www.barchester.com

11/08/2025

✨A Roaring 1920s Summer Fête at Ashlar House ✨

Ashlar House Care Home in turned back the clock for a spectacular Summer Fete inspired by the glamour of the 1920s.

Residents, families, colleagues and guests dressed to impress, bringing the glamour and spirit of the Jazz Age to life.

From Charleston dancing and live entertainment to delicious food, sweet treats and a much-loved raffle. There was something for everyone to enjoy.

It was a fantastic experience for all involved. 👏

11/08/2025

🌟🌟🌟Our phone lines are back up and running, thank you for your patience 🌟🌟🌟

06/08/2025

💜🌟 BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS. 🌟💜

Next week, two of our wonderful team members, Ann and Linda, will be celebrating their 60th birthdays—just a day apart! Of course, we couldn’t let such a special occasion pass without a proper celebration 💜

Keeping it all a surprise was no easy task, especially while setting up right under their noses! But the effort was well worth it. A delicious cake, lovingly prepared by Curiositea Cafe, took centre stage, and both Ann and Linda were presented with beautiful bouquets of flowers.The afternoon was filled with fun, laughter, bingo with the residents, and a mouth-watering buffet prepared by our talented head chef, Simon 💜

Happy 60th, Ann and Linda! We hope you both enjoy every moment of your celebrations—you truly deserve it! 🎉💐🎂

Barchester Healthcare

05/08/2025

🐾🌟🐾🌟 PET THERAPY 🌟🐾🌟🐾

A huge thank you to Carmarthenshire Party Ponies & Therapy Pets for introducing us to this lovable, adorable puppy Beethoven! 🐾🐾🐾
Beethoven is a 6 month old St. Bernard who chose us for his first visit to a care home. 🐾🐾🐾
He brought so many smiles to our residents, staff and family members and he gave so many cuddles and kisses. The best behaved pup we have ever met!
We look forward to seeing just how big he grows over the coming months! 🐾🐾🐾
Thank you Beethoven for brightening up our day! 🌟🐾🌟

For more information on life at our home please visit https://www.barchester.com/home/plas-y-dderwen-care-home

01/08/2025

🌟 Barchester Care Awards – Divisional Winner! 🌟

We’re thrilled to announce that Sophie Rees has been crowned Volunteer of the Year for the Central Division at the Barchester Care Awards!

Sophie has been volunteering with us for almost 10 years, generously giving her time three days a week to support our residents. Her warmth, dedication, and energy make her a truly valued part of our Activities team, and we couldn't be prouder to have her with us.

Next stop… the nationals!
Sophie will be joining winners from across the UK at a special awards ceremony in October, where we’ll find out if she’s scooped the national title.

A huge congratulations, Sophie – and thank you for everything you do! 💛👏

For more information on lufe at our home please visit https://www.barchester.com/home/plas-y-dderwen-care-home

Barchester Healthcare

29/07/2025

💜💜💜Enable is Now Live! 💜💜💜

💜💜💜Digital Care Starts Today💜💜💜

We’re excited to announce that today marks the official launch of Enable, our brand-new digital care planning system!
💜
This new digital system will empower our teams to deliver truly person-centred, life enrichment care by giving them instant access to care plans and individual preferences through a user-friendly app on handheld devices, tablets, and computers. The move from paper to digital revolutionises how we plan, record, and coordinate care—making it faster, smarter, and more connected. Most importantly, it means more meaningful time with residents and less time spent on paperwork.
💜
To celebrate this milestone, our teams came together for a joyful launch filled with balloons, excitement, and a stunning lemon and raspberry Enable-themed cake—beautifully designed by our very own Head of Housekeeping, Sandra and her daughter at Curiositea. It was a sweet and memorable way to welcome this new era of care.
💜
A huge thank you to our incredible Transposing Team, and to everyone who supported the rollout over the past few weeks. Your hard work and enthusiasm made today possible.
💜
Enable is here—and the future of care is in our hands.

💜

For more information on life at our home please visit https://www.barchester.com/home/plas-y-dderwen-care-home

Barchester Healthcare