Senior citizens’ club scoops pub award
A popular Old Windsor social club supporting older people and those with conditions such as dementia and Parkinson’s disease has been recognised with an award from a pub company.
Home care provider Home Instead Windsor, Runnymede and West Spelthorne; Age UK Berkshire and The Fox & Castle pub in Old Windsor partnered to launch the Pub & Pastries Seniors Social last year.
The club, which runs on the first Monday of each month from 11am to 12.30pm at the Burfield Road pub, brings together people to socialise and supports those experiencing challenges such as dementia, aging and other conditions, along with their carers.
During the event, guests enjoy hot drinks and complimentary pastries while socialising and gaining advice and support.
Pub & Pastries Seniors Social was chosen by Stonegate Pub Company as the best pub innovation idea in the south.
The accolade saw the club receive £500, which will be used to host its summer party for club participants on Monday, July 1.
Organisers are looking to attract a range of people to attend the socials, including paid and unpaid caregivers, daughters, sons, and grandchildren of seniors.
The club also supports those with conditions including Parkinson’s, dementia and mobility challenges.
Those affected, family members and friends can find support as well and foster new connections and friendships with others experiencing similar challenges.
Jo Halstead from Home Instead, said: “Holding the monthly social in a pub, that’s friendly for those with dementia and other conditions such as Parkinson’s helps normalise the occasion in a relaxed atmosphere.
“We want to reach more people, earlier, at different ages and stages of dementia and other conditions.
“It’s also excellent networking opportunity for related local groups, service providers and businesses to come together connecting the broader care community.
“Having launched in October last year, it has become a popular, inclusive community cafe where people can connect, share their experiences, and find company and support with others having similar experiences.”
Anitra Camargo, managing director at Home Instead Windsor, Runnymede and
West Spelthorne, said: “By linking the like-minded in familiar, welcoming and age-inclusive spaces like the Fox and Castle, we can bring people together to share their stories and support each other.
“The ripple effect will positively impact the lives of countless individuals affected by conditions like dementia and Parkinson’s in our local community.”
Nicholas Bayldon Pritchard, owner of The Fox & Castle
Pub, said: “Since starting to work with Home Instead and Age UK on the seniors social I've learned a lot about the importance of care in our community and particularly dementia.
“It’s been a hugely rewarding learning experience for me and my staff. It's a privilege for us, and together, we aim to bring joy to our local seniors and a sense of community to everyone affected by conditions such as dementia.”
The next social will take place between 11am and 12.30pm on Bank HolidayMonday (May 6).
This month Home Instead is running an activity potting saplings and sunflower seeds for guests to take home with them.
For more information about the award celebration summer party contact Liz Berry from Home Instead on 01784477854 or email jo.halstead@homeinstead.co.uk
To find out more about Home Instead Windsor, Runnymede and West Spelthorne, call 01753903422 or visit: https://www.homeinstead.co.uk/windsorrunnymede/