The coronavirus pandemic hasn't stopped the fun and celebrations at Cheriton Care Home, but residents and staff are looking forward to enjoying even more activities.

The Dorchester care home on Weymouth Avenue has ensured games, events and more have continued as it is such an important part of life there.

Whether that be balloon badminton, pamper sessions, quizzes, and the firm favourite animal bingo, to supporting charity fundraisers and trips out when restrictions allow.

One of the charity events the team got behind was taking part in morris dancing for Captain Tom Moore's 100 challenge in aid of the Care Workers' Charity. This included care workers - at the care homes run by Portland-based care provider Agincare - dressing up as morris dancers and delighting residents with performances in celebration of St George's Day.

Residents are also encouraged to suggest activities at the monthly 'cuppa and cake' get-togethers with the social co-ordinators, and they also have the choice to join in with arts, crafts and puzzles.

The benefit of Cheriton having a beautiful, secure garden is that residents can become members of the gardening club - planting bulbs or looking after various vegetable seedlings donated by the local community - or just having somewhere to sit and enjoy nature and watch the wildlife.

As well as all the activities, the team don't let birthdays, wedding anniversaries and special events go past without a celebration.

And there's cause for more celebration this year as Agincare marks its 35th anniversary.

Manager Denise Chippres said: "We know just how important social interaction, events and celebrations are in making sure that all our residents are happy, active and will in body and mind.

"That's never been more important than during Covid when we've been making sure that day-to-day events, activities and celebrations kept going, depending on restrictions at the time.

"With lockdown easing and summer on the way. We're looking forward to introducing more activities and welcoming more guests into the home, as well as going out on trips too."

Safe visits at the home have been able to continue, as well as welcoming new residents, and they all enjoy close links with the Dorchester community, including the local church, community groups and schools. Pupils from St Osmund's Middle School making cakes for the residents.

Staff at Agincare have been praised for all their hard work during the pandemic, receiving a Covid Hero Medal and a special message from TV and film star Joanna Lumley.

Cheriton Care Home is covid-free with staff continuing to undertake regular testing and follow government guidelines and advice.

To find out more, visit Agincare.com

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