We are delighted to welcome to our home our new Lifestyle and Wellbeing lead, Jayne Melhuish. Jayne has been getting to know all our residents; their hobbies and interests, likes and dislikes and hopes for the summer. All important to build friendships and so Jayne can tailor resident focused activities. She has lots of ideas and wants residents to be involved as much as possible and enjoying life.
Jayne, Lifestyle and Wellbeing lead, in her words
“I have a passion for caring for people and empowering them to live their best lives and achieve their goals. No matter how big or small their goals maybe.
I have a varied career history. I started off working as a regional manager for a funeral directors. Then I worked within the NHS for 27 years until taking early retirement. I then became a residential support worker for ex-women offenders, helping them to go back into community.
For the last eight years, I have volunteered for the Youth Support Service, covering Kidderminster Police Station. We support youths that find themselves within the custody suite. We ensure that they are been looked after whilst in the police cells and support them through their interview process, fingerprinting, photos, searches etc.
I am married with five adult children, six grandchildren and two Great granddaughters. Before coming to Astley Hall, I had taken 12 months off to look after my aunt who has just began her journey of Vascular Dementia. It’s heart-breaking, so I understand the heartache for family members, losing their loved ones.”
Activities at Astley this Spring
We are longing for warmer days to sit outside in our garden. For now, we are venturing out when the skies are blue, and managing to dodge the hail storms! Wrapped up warm, it’s still lovely to be outside; to see the spring flowers and plan where to plant all our Mother’s Day hyacinth bulbs. Two of our residents love a visit to the ponies grazing the nearby fields. Another of our residents has been keeping busy indoors with an enormous jigsaw puzzle: It’s so lovely to stop by and help with a few pieces.
One of the first lifestyle and wellbeing events Jayne arranged was a day at the races for The Grand National. Everyone dressed up for the occasion, with our ladies all looking fabulous with their fascinators. Residents and staff chose a horse to back and we had prizes for the winners. There was lots of whooping at the TV! Then, a traditional afternoon tea with sandwiches, cupcakes and strawberries and cream – all topped off with some bubbles! Such a brilliant day bringing everyone together.
We had a cracking Easter here, of course with lots of chocolate and other treats (something for all dietary requirements and tastes). There was Easter baking, crafting, some pampering time, and a wonderful 91st birthday celebration with family amidst it all. We have more birthday celebrations at the end of April. We always like to do something special, such as tie in an entertainer visiting. And our catering team make wonderful personalised cakes. Musical entertainment is so uplifting and our regular singers always put on a splendid performance in the lounge before singing to other residents in their rooms. They also take requests – “Bring me sunshine” is a current favourite – we can’t think why!!
For May, we are marking one year of the King’s Coronation and looking to Chelsea Flower Show for inspiration in our garden. Jayne has signed up to the Dementia UK fundraiser to Walk 31 Miles in May. This is a cause so close to our hearts. If you would like to sponsor Jayne please do drop into our reception.