Ashlar House Care Home - Barchester Healthcare

17/09/2025

Unforgettable time as live entertainment returned this fall. The incredibly talented Tracy Lea lit up the stage, bringing joy and excitement to residents through vibrant dancing, cheerful smiles, and powerful singing that filled the room with energy and laughter.








To find out more about life at Ashlar House, please visit our website:

https://www.barchester.com/home/ashlar-house-care-home or call our friendly team on 01992 570691

15/09/2025

10/09/2025

The Power of Reminiscing Through History

As part of our ongoing commitment to promoting well-being and social engagement, residents recently took part in a group activity centred around reminiscing through old articles, letters, posters, books, and leaflets. This session proved to be more than just a nostalgic journey it offered a range of emotional, cognitive, and social benefits:
Stimulated Memory and Cognitive Function, Engaging with familiar historical materials encouraged residents to recall past experiences, helping to exercise memory and mental agility. Discussing old stories and significant life moments strengthened cognitive connections and supported long-term memory recall, particularly beneficial for those living with dementia.

Boosted Mood and Emotional Well-being, Revisiting the past through beloved books, heartfelt letters, and meaningful posters brought joy, laughter, and a sense of comfort. These emotional connections often evoke positive memories, promoting a sense of identity and purpose while reducing feelings of loneliness or anxiety.

Strengthened Social Bonds, The group setting fostered open conversation, shared storytelling, and communal laughter. As residents discussed their own interpretations and experiences, they found common ground with others, building deeper connections and encouraging a sense of belonging within the community.

Encouraged Self-expression and Confidence, Residents were invited to share personal stories and perspectives, many of which hadn’t been voiced in years. This opportunity allowed individuals to take pride in their life experiences, boosting self-esteem and encouraging a renewed sense of value and contribution.

Sparked Curiosity and Lifelong Learning, Historical materials naturally led to discussions around culture, society, and personal history. This inspired curiosity and encouraged residents to learn more, ask questions, and reflect on how much the world has changed—and how much they’ve contributed to it.

Created a Sense of Continuity and Identity, Reminiscence supports a sense of self by linking the past to the present. Holding a familiar leaflet or reading a letter from long ago can reaffirm who we are and where we’ve come from, reinforcing personal identity in a meaningful way.

This group activity was a powerful reminder that the past is not just something to remember it is something that can continue to nurture, connect, and inspire. The use of old articles, letters, and books opened a rich doorway to memory, healing, and joy, leaving residents feeling uplifted and deeply connected with one another.


To find out more about life at Ashlar House, please visit our website:

https://www.barchester.com/home/ashlar-house-care-home or call our friendly team on 01992 570691

09/09/2025

View Strictly Saint Francis from The Brentwood Centre.

09/09/2025

Dear Friends, Family & Community,

Drew and Son Family Funeral Directors are proud to support Saint Francis Hospice – a charity that holds a very special place in our hearts.

A few months ago, the team at Saint Francis reached out with this message:
“Steve, we’ve got an event that’s right up your street!”

Well… it seemed like a great idea at the time!

Now, reality has well and truly set in! 😅
On Friday 24th October, Saint Francis Hospice is hosting their very own Strictly Come Dancing event at The Brentwood Centre (CM15 9NN). Doors open at 6:30pm for a 7:00pm start.

Our very own Steve has been bravely partnered with a professional dancer and is learning both a Latin American and a ballroom dance – all in time for the big night. Let’s just say his dance partner has her work cut out!

Rita Green, Staff, Residents, and friends will be there to support Steve and cheer him on. 🧡

If you fancy a fun night out filled with glitter, laughter, and supporting a fantastic cause, please come along alone.

Every ticket Steve sells earns him more votes, so let’s help him shimmy his way to the top! 💃🕺

📅 Friday 24th October
📍 The Brentwood Centre, Doddinghurst Road, Brentwood CM15 9NN
⏰ Doors at 6:30pm | Show starts 7:00pm








To find out more about life at Ashlar House, please visit our website:

https://www.barchester.com/home/ashlar-house-care-home or call our friendly team on 01992 570691

08/09/2025

Our Tell Barchester Annual Survey is LIVE!

For the 5th consecutive year, our annual customer satisfaction survey Tell Barchester is OPEN!

The survey gives our residents, patients, their friends and family the opportunity to tell us how they feel about their experience, helping us learn, improve and celebrate what people love about life at Barchester.

Residents and patients are able to complete the survey with our teams, invitations to take part are emailed to all friends & family members we have contact details for – have you received yours? It’s also possible to take part in our homes and hospitals using the QR posters on display.

Tell Barchester is quick and simple to complete, your time is much appreciated and this feedback shapes the care and service received across Barchester.

In the meantime, if you have feedback you would like to share you can talk to us at any point, our door is always open.

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

We’re Back! Weekly Health & Fitness Sessions Return After the Summer Break 🌞➡️🏋️‍♀️

We’re excited to welcome everyone back to our Weekly Health & Fitness sessions — refreshed and ready after the summer break!

This season, we’re turning up the energy with a renewed focus on upper arm and leg strength, helping our senior residents improve mobility, balance, and overall wellbeing.

💪 What’s New:
• Gentle arm and leg toning exercises
• Low-impact movements for strength and stability
• Routines tailored to all fitness levels
• A fun, friendly, and supportive environment

🗓️ Every Wednesday at 2:45 PM
📍 [Insert location if needed]

Let’s stay active, build strength, and enjoy moving together. We look forward to seeing you there!










To find out more about life at Ashlar House, please visit our website:

https://www.barchester.com/home/ashlar-house-care-home or call our friendly team on 01992 570691

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

Dear Facebook followers,

Did you know that Performance Pets visit us during the first week of every month? They bring the joy of pet therapy to as many residents as possible whether in group sessions, one-on-one visits, or right in the comfort of their own rooms.

This afternoon, our furry and feathered friends included Jeff, a charming male cockatiel parrot, along with a lively group of colorful budgies. Their visit brought smiles, laughter, and a warm, calming presence throughout our home.

Some residents fondly recalled having birds like these when they were children, sparking lovely memories. Others simply enjoyed watching their bright colors or chatting away to them, the birds were wonderful listeners!

Jeff, in particular, was quite the star, he posed for some great selfies and gave out plenty of kisses! 🐦💋 His gentle nature and playful personality made him a fast favorite.

Even our staff couldn’t resist the fun, many took a moment to greet the birds and share in the joy with residents. It was heartwarming to see everyone come together for such a special experience.

A big thank you to Performance Pets for another beautiful afternoon. We’re already looking forward to their next visit!

Stay tuned for more heartwarming moments.









To find out more about life at Ashlar House, please visit our website:

https://www.barchester.com/home/ashlar-house-care-home or call our friendly team on 01992 570691

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

01/09/2025

Message from Rita Green, Activities Lead.

Some things go beyond just being a job, they become a calling, a deep connection, even a second family.

Today, I felt that more than ever.

I had promised myself I’d take a break, to truly switch off and step away from work
and for the most part, I did.

But in quiet moments, my thoughts kept drifting back to the people who mean so much to me my residents. They’re the reason I do what I do. Not just part of the job, but my true companions in the everyday rhythm of life.

Coming back today, I was greeted with surprise smiles, joyful tears, warm hugs, and kind words about how much I was missed. One resident even recognized my voice before they saw me — and their face lit up instantly.

That moment said it all. This isn’t just work. It’s where I’m meant to be home.

Here is some photos that will be shared to everyone some may reminisce their time in St Ives or more.









To find out more about life at Ashlar House, please visit our website:

https://www.barchester.com/home/ashlar-house-care-home or call our friendly team on 01992 570691

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

🐾 Zooblab Visit –
A Wild Encounter at Ashlar House! 🐾

Two weeks ago, Ashlar House welcomed Chris, who lived in the rainforest for over 18 years! He shared fascinating stories and brought along some unforgettable animal guests that sparked smiles, laughter, and a few brave moments!

🐍 Casper – A calm and friendly corn snake, joined by a mighty rock python from North Kenya.

🕷️ Elvis – A hairy-legged Honduran Curly Hair Tarantula, who lives underground and once reached a size of 140 mm!

🐊 Javis – Our cheeky little “Crockock”, who brought some wild energy to the room.

🐌 Brian the Giant Snail – Full of surprises:
• 10,000 teeth on his tongue
• Green blood
• Both male and female
• Named after Brian from The Magic Roundabout

Our residents were even braver than the staff! Many held and interacted with the animals, which sparked wonderful conversations and memories among everyone.

The best part? This wild adventure is now a monthly event at Ashlar House! Hope to see you there in september, liase with Rita Green activities Lead.

To find out more about life at Ashlar House, please visit our website:

https://www.barchester.com/home/ashlar-house-care-home or call our friendly team on 01992 570691





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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

📸 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.

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

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! 👏

17/08/2025

What a Sunday to remember at Ashlar House! ☀️

The sun was shining just as brightly as our beautiful birthday girl, Eliane, who turned 80 today! 🎉 Surrounded by her sisters, her childrens, her grandchildrens, and her dearest friends (some she’s known since her teenage years!), the afternoon was full of laughter, stories, and plenty of smiles. 💕

It was extra special to have families reunited under one roof catching up, celebrating the grandchildren’s fantastic exam results, and looking ahead to their exciting next chapters. Eliane couldn’t have been prouder to share her 80th with them before they continue on their educational journeys. 🎓🌟

One of the most moving moments came from her son, Phil, who shared stories of her early years where she lived, worked, met her beloved husband Derek, and even her time as a nurse working nights while raising her young family.

Residents had a smashing time socialising and joining in the celebrations and the icing on the cake? 🎶 A live performance from Eliane’s favourite singer, Paul Lille, who made the day extra special! 🥳🎤

Here’s to Eliane — 80 years young and absolutely fabulous! 💐❤️

To find out more about life at Ashlar House, please visit our website:

https://www.barchester.com/home/ashlar-house-care-home or call our friendly team on 01992 570691

16/08/2025

Exciting News for Harlow!

We’re thrilled to share that Anamorava Coffee Shop will be opening its doors in Harlow next week! They’ll be serving up a wonderful selection of pastries, cheesecakes, and cakes – all with that special homemade touch.

The owner of Anamorava visited Ashlar House together with our home manager, Flavia, who always thinks and breathes for her residents and staff. She wanted us all to have the chance to enjoy this experience firsthand and it was such a treat!

Our residential ambassador was lucky enough to have the very first taste of their chocolate mousse. The verdict? Not too sweet, beautifully light in texture, and with a surprise hint of strawberry in the centre absolutely delicious! A tray was then shared around with our residents, and it was a big hit all round.

From all of us here at Ashlar House, we wish Anamorava Coffee Shop the very best of luck with their opening. We can’t wait to visit and enjoy more of their treats soon!






To find out more about life at Ashlar House, please visit our website:

https://www.barchester.com/home/ashlar-house-care-home or call our friendly team on 01992 570691

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. 👏