The Orchards care home in Ely raised more than £1,000 during its annual summer fete, with all proceeds going towards new outings and activities for residents. The event brought together residents, families, and community members for an afternoon of food, music, and conversation.
Special guests and entertainment
Special guests included Mayor Rebecca Dennes and members of the Ely Dementia Choir, who joined in the celebrations. Visitors enjoyed afternoon tea, listened to live music from the Banjo Man, and heard an educational presentation from the Raptor Foundation. Guests also entered a grand raffle featuring prizes generously donated by businesses from across the local region.
Resident shares her story
During the event, 79-year-old resident Virginia 'Ginny' Bennett spent time at the Get Care Wise stall to chat with visitors about daily life. She answered questions and shared her personal experiences of moving into care to help others facing similar choices.
Virginia Bennett, a resident at The Orchards, said: "I'm incredibly proud of my family, and I'm also proud of everything I've achieved since moving to The Orchards. I've enjoyed reading at church services, learning to paint and even using the exercise bike at my keep-fit classes. What I enjoy most is talking to people because there's always someone to chat to."
She added: "If anyone is thinking about moving into a care home, I'd say don't be afraid to say how you feel and give yourself time to settle in. It's different at first, but if you're patient and talk to people, it's lovely. I certainly don't miss having to do the shopping anymore."
Manager praises ambassador
Alastair Rayner, home manager at The Orchards, commented: "Ginny was a fantastic ambassador for the event, presenting the Mayor with flowers, helping to judge the colouring competition and drawing the winner of the teddy bear raffle. She also enjoyed talking to visitors and sharing her own experiences."
He added: "Hearing first-hand from someone who lives in a care home is often the best way to understand what life is really like and to challenge some of the common assumptions people may have."
Rayner also highlighted the importance of early planning: "Many people don't start thinking about care until a crisis forces them to, and our research found that many wished they had received more information and support when navigating care decisions. Events like this give people the chance to ask questions, look around and have conversations in a relaxed setting, encouraging families to explore their options before they need them. That can make future decisions feel far less daunting."
Free guides and practical information from the Get Care Wise campaign are available at www.greensleeves.org.uk/get-care-wise.
