Hollyfields Care Home - Barchester Healthcare

06/09/2025

Fitness with David💪
We would like to extend a big thank you to David for leading our two weekly fitness sessions this week. He truly got our residents engaged right from the start by kicking off the session with a fun balloon pass activity — a great way to wake everyone up and get moving!

Each individual had a turn and really got stuck into the session, bringing energy and enthusiasm throughout.

At Barchester, we focus on nurturing the mind, body, and soul — and this week’s sessions created a truly wonderful and uplifting atmosphere. Thank you again, David!

To find out more about living at Hollyfields in Kidderminster please visit https://www.barchester.com/home/hollyfields-care-home

Phone 01562 514810 to book a show round and meet the manager, the team and our lovely residents.

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

01/09/2025

On September 7th, a brave member of staff from Barchester Healthcare’s Hollyfields care home in Kidderminster will be taking on the gruelling Great North Run to raise money for Barchester’s Charitable Foundation. The Charitable Foundation supports older people and other adults living with a disability or a mental health condition by helping them to connect or re-connect with others in their local communities

Dementia Specialist Nurse, Thomas Hodges, will don his lycra, put on his trainers and use grit and determination to complete the 13.1 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.

Tom has worked for Barchester for over six years and loves his job supporting residents living with dementia. A keen runner, Tom has been training hard in the Lakes where he lives and hopes his hilly training runs will give him an advantage over the relatively flat Great North Run course. If you would like to support him, please visit https://ajbellgreatnorthrun2025.enthuse.com/pf/tom-hodges all donations will be very gratefully received.

Tom comments: “This is my second race fundraising for the Foundation and I’m really excited to take part. I got into running about five years and I absolutely love it, despite having had a fair few injuries. I’m hoping to raise lots of money for the Foundation. I know all the staff, residents and relatives at Hollyfields and my friends and family are all behind me and their support plus the money I’m raising will help me go the distance!”

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. ✨

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.

25/08/2025

🌞We hope that everyone enjoyed a pleasant bank holiday weekend, taking advantage of the sunshine. As a friendly reminder, The Glam Sparrow will be returning tomorrow at 2:00 PM. We would be delighted to welcome more families to join us.🎵🎸🎧

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

Afternoon Outing to Kidderminster🌞

This afternoon, we headed into town with Pip from Hollyfields and Roy from Ivy House, accompanied by the ever-helpful Anniesha and Kaylee. A big thank you to Steve for dropping us off in the homes’ minibus — we couldn’t have done it without him!

Our first stop was the local market, where we enjoyed a lovely stroll, soaking up the atmosphere and spotting some interesting characters along the way. We had a chuckle meeting Dolly the horse, a cat lounging in a beauty salon, and even a dog riding on the front of a scooter!

After exploring the market, Pip and Roy fancied a refreshing pint, so we made our way to The Swan pub in Kidderminster. We were warmly welcomed by Sarah from our domestic team, who popped over for a lovely chat with the residents.

Everyone enjoyed a delicious lunch and a cold drink before we hopped back on the minibus and returned home. It was a fun and heartwarming afternoon — full of laughter, good company, and great memories.

20/08/2025

We Welcomed Back The Jiggy Wrigglers!

This afternoon, we were thrilled to welcome back The Jiggy Wrigglers for another fun-filled session! This time, we hosted the event in our beautiful new upstairs lounge, and it was a big hit with everyone. As many of you know, we are currently undergoing a refurbishment at Hollyfields, and what a perfect setting our new lounge turned out to be for such a lively and joyful gathering.

The session was packed with laughter, music, and bubbles floating through the air — pure magic! Our residents were beaming with smiles and thoroughly enjoyed engaging with the little ones. It was heartwarming to see so much joy and connection shared across generations.

A huge thank you to Zoe Moore Jiggy Wrigglers Kidderminster, Ludlow and Bridgnorth for bringing their infectious energy once again — we can't wait to welcome you back!

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/

19/08/2025

For International Cat Day😻,we held a little competition for some purrfect pictures of your furry friends. But Alan and Clare went one step further — they brought in their beautiful cat Freya The Rag Doll for a special visit with their loved one, Pat.

Pat has grown up with cats and shares a deep love for them, so this thoughtful gesture truly meant the world. Freya happily sat with Pat in bed, enjoying some well-deserved fuss and cuddles.

A huge thank you to Alan and Clare for going above and beyond and making this moment so special. 🐾❤️

Freya has some well deserved treats ready for you to collect tomorrow.🐈‍⬛️

To find out more about living at Hollyfields in Kidderminster please visit https://www.barchester.com/home/hollyfields-care-home

Phone 01562 514810 to book a show round and meet the manager, the team and our lovely residents.

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! 👏

15/08/2025

We’re so excited at Hollyfields to welcome the Jiggly Wigglers toddler group — can’t wait for all the fun and giggles.

To book your space contact Jiggy Wrigglers Kidderminster, Ludlow and Bridgnorth or to find out more call us on 01562 514810 or email hollyfields@barchester.com

14/08/2025

Farewell, May – You Will Be Missed!💐
Today marks May’s last day here at Hollyfields, and she will be deeply missed by all our residents, their families, and the team. May has brought so much joy, laughter, and warmth to our home, touching the lives of everyone she met.

She spent her final day doing what she loves most – singing and dancing with our wonderful residents, creating beautiful memories to leave behind.

May, thank you for everything. We wish you all the very best in your next adventure. Wherever you go, you’ll continue to brighten the lives of those around you – just as you’ve done here.

With love from all of us at Hollyfields & IVy house 💛

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

13/08/2025

🎉 Happy Birthday, Margaret! 🎉

What a wonderful day it’s been! Margaret was in full spirit today—sharing laughs with the staff, surrounded by a lovely collection of birthday cards from friends and family. A special visit from a dear friend truly made her day. It was heartwarming to see her smile and enjoy every moment.
And as if that wasn’t enough to celebrate, it also happened to be National Prosecco Day! A few residents raised a glass with lunch, making it a perfect day filled with joy, laughter, and a little sparkle. 🥂✨

Wishing you continued joy, love, and laughter 💐

13/08/2025

🎉 Congratulations, Thomas! 🎉

We are thrilled to celebrate your 10 years of dedicated service at Hollyfields! Your hard work, commitment, and positive attitude make you a true credit to Team Hollyfields.

We’re also proud to announce that Thomas has successfully completed his Commis Chef level 2 Apprenticeship and gained a distinction! This is a fantastic achievement and a testament to your passion and perseverance.

Wishing you all the best in this exciting new chapter — we can’t wait to experience your culinary creations!

👏🍽️👨‍🍳

12/08/2025

Hi everyone!

I hope you’re all enjoying the summer holidays so far - we’re having a lovely time in Devon.

I’m really looking forward to seeing you all next week - from the look of my email inbox, you are all too, as I’ve seen lots of bookings flying in for our August classes. It’s not too late if you’d like to join us - I’ll pop the details on when & where to find us and the booking link in the comments. If your class of choice is fully booked, please add yourself to the waiting list and you will get an email notification if a space becomes available.

See you soon,

Jiggy Zo xx 🫶🏽

12/08/2025

💖 64 Years of Love 💖

Today we celebrated Pat & Alan’s 64th Wedding Anniversary here at Hollyfields Care Home. Pat's room was filled with love, smiles, and a beautiful banner – plus a special balloon to mark the occasion. 🎈

Alan joined her for the celebrations, and we raised a glass of Prosecco to toast their incredible journey together. 🥂✨

Congratulations, Pat & Alan – your love story continues to inspire us all. ❤️

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. 👏