Residents at Peckham’s Waterside care home raised funds for the Alzheimer’s Society at their ‘wellness day’ last Friday, featuring African drumming, dancing and a fashion show.
The home, run by Anchor, raised £50 for the charity on Friday, August 16, as part of a summer season of special events at Sumner Road.
Manager Juliana Ahunanya said weeks of planning had gone into the day.
“All the activities on the day improved our residents’ physical or mental wellbeing, whether it was a quick dance along with the African drummers or trying out our healthy food,” she said.
“Our residents had a fantastic time. The African drummer was a real hit, and we all enjoyed seeing 78-year-old Dorothy Campbell model in our fashion show as we tucked into healthy treats.
“More people across Britain than ever before are living with dementia, and we know the importance of providing quality care and support to those living with the condition and their families.
“That’s why the Alzheimer’s Society was an obvious choice when we discussed which charity was going to benefit from our wellness fun day. They do a great job.
“We’re so pleased we raised £50 for them.”
Eighty-nine-year-old Mathew Mcilree, who has lived in Waterside for a year, said: “I am the only boy in my family and my family loves dancing, so I like dancing and enjoy singing.
“Other activities the staff organise for me which I like is going to the pub and tea club.
“I feel very happy living in Waterside.”
Alfred Carty, a 75-year-old grandfather, said: “Waterside is a home from home.
“I say that because all I enjoyed at home, I am also enjoying at Waterside.
“I love gardening here as well as playing dominoes and watching cricket on television.”
The home, which cares for up to 48, has another reason to celebrate after being awarded a ‘good’ in every area by the Care Quality Commission whose inspectors visited in May of this year.
A subsequent report highlighted its high-quality work and the choice given to its residents.
Ms Ahunanya said: “We have worked hard to make Waterside a good care home but to be given such praise from the regulator is wonderful.
“We are proud of the meals which are made from fresh seasonal ingredients and the high levels of training and support our staff receive.
“We welcome such rigorous inspections and clear ratings so older people and their families can see which homes are the best in the country.
“We’re so pleased to be classed as a good care home – we’ll be celebrating this success.”