Since welcoming its first resident, Joyce, in October 2025, Colwall Care Home has continued to grow, bringing residents, families and team members together through shared experiences, individual achievements and connections with the local community.
Over the past year, some of the most memorable moments have been those that celebrate the people who live at Colwall and the things that matter most to them. These have included helping Kath reconnect with her lifelong love of horses through a special birthday visit to Sheepcote Equestrian, celebrating David’s 100th birthday and marking Carole and Dennis McDonnell’s 66th wedding anniversary.
For Carole and Dennis, the support they receive at Colwall has helped them continue to share important moments together, including a special visit for Carole to see her daughter after a year apart. These moments have meant a great deal to them, giving them more opportunities to spend time together while knowing Carole is receiving the care and support she needs. Reflecting on their experience, Dennis said: “Both of us feel more relaxed. We know that she’s being well looked after.”
Residents have also enjoyed a varied programme of activities shaped around their interests, from a cribbage evening with Allan and his friends, which led to the formation of a cribbage club, to falconry displays, art exhibitions, Scrabble and visits from Bob the therapy dog. These experiences have created opportunities for residents to try new things, enjoy familiar interests and spend time together.
Clare, Lifestyle Coordinator at Colwall, said: “The residents are a fantastic group of people with lovely ideas and really know what they want to get on with and what they enjoy.” Having joined the home in June, Clare has enjoyed getting to know residents and working alongside the team to support the activities and experiences that matter to them.
Colwall has also strengthened its links with the surrounding community, welcoming local people through coffee mornings, seasonal celebrations and fundraising events. The home’s Celebration of Spring brought residents and local businesses together, while its Summer Garden Party raised £92 for
Colwall Community Church. Team members also took part in the Great Rotherwood Row-Off, completing a 10km rowing challenge and raising a further £130 for the church.
Another significant development during the home’s first year has been the opening of its new nursing floor, expanding the care available at Colwall to support residents with more complex healthcare needs. With 24-hour nursing support, residents can continue to enjoy activities, spend time with others and maintain the routines that are important to them.
Shelley Hearn, Home Manager at Colwall Care Home, said: “I’m incredibly proud of how far Colwall has come in its first year. Thank you to our residents, families, team and local community for helping make it such a special place. I look forward to everything the next year will bring.”
As Colwall marks its first anniversary, the milestone offers an opportunity to recognise the residents, families, team members and local people who have helped shape the home over the past year.
With its community continuing to grow and its care provision expanding, Colwall looks forward to building on this first year, creating more opportunities for residents to enjoy the things that matter to them and making new memories together.
