FRIENDS COMMITTEE REPRESENTATIVES

SARJEANT COURT Chair: Mrs Joan Rees WILLIS COURT Mrs Shirley Scott (Secretary) Miss Jean Richards Mrs Norma Cook Treasurer: Mr Don Maidment Mrs Eileen Stalley

BUNGALOWS NON-RESIDENT FRIENDS Mrs Margaret Davies Co-opted: Mrs Karen Shanley Mrs Val Hollamby (Churches Together) Mr Don Sloman (Membership Secretary)

ASHBY CLOSE Mr Gordon Sadler

NEWS FROM THE MANAGEMENT BOARD

The Board of Management met on Wednesday 16th April 2014 and discussed the Financial Highlights for the month of March 2014 indicating a healthy financial position at the year end.

The Chair of the Glebe Court Committee reported on their latest meeting.

Members discussed the information they were sent in regards to the Care quality Commission’s consultation documents on regulating Adult Social Care in the future.

The Chief Executive summarized the CQC’s new approach to regulating services to ensure they are safe, effective, caring, responsive to peoples’ needs and well led.

Members were updated on progress towards the introduction of Workplace Pensions which for the Association comes into effect on 1st May 2014.

The Board’s next meeting is scheduled for 21st May 2014.

Graham Lilly, Chief Executive

FRIENDS CORNER

There are so many outings and activities here for us all to enjoy this year – thanks to Karen and Trevor and their helpers. Also thanks to the many volunteer gardeners who are making our surroundings look so beautiful. Please look at the Sarjeant and Willis Court notice boards so that you know what is going on and do not miss out on anything!

Thank you to David Hunt and his two assistants for a most interesting Tea & Talk which he had translated from Russian! On Monday 12th May (please note change of date), Eileen will be joining us with her canine partner, Icharus for a Tea & Talk in ADAMS HALL at 2.15pm for a 2.30pm start. We hope you can join us.

Please remember, if you are visiting Coolings Garden Centre to ask at the till for the Community Vouchers and then please pass them onto The Friends. We are able to use them to purchase plants and other gardening necessities. Thank You

Joan Rees, Chair Friends of Glebe Housing

1 THE BENCURTIS WALKING GROUP

Past Walks: Tuesday 25th March Norma led eleven walkers from Victoria, along Victoria Street to The House of Frazer for coffee, then on to St James’s Park, where the flowers were beautiful. The party saw the changing of the Guard before going on to St Martin’s-in-the-Fields for a good lunch in the crypt, returning home via Hayes by train.

Wednesday 9th April Christine led fourteen walkers along the Waterlink Way, part of this is known as the Riverside Walk. It was a lovely sunny day and a very pleasant walk. We stopped for coffee before returning by train from Ladywell station; lunch at The New Inn, Hayes and 119 bus home.

Future Walks:

Wednesday 7th May – Bluebell Walk PLEASE NOTE CHANGE OF DATE for the Bluebell Walk as the bluebells have flowered much earlier this year. It is now Wednesday 7th May led by Anne. Bus to Addington Village, then T33 bus to Sandpiper Road and walk round Selsdon Nature Reserve to see the bluebells. Return to Addington Village for lunch at The Cricketers Harvester. Then either walk back to Bencurtis Park or return by bus. An easier walk than last year!!

Wednesday 28th May – Dulwich Park Dulwich Park for the rhododendrons, led by Pat & Ernie. 119 bus to Bromley South, then train to Dulwich West. Coffee and lunch stops included.

Please check Willis or Sarjeant Court notice boards for any unavoidable last minute changes. Jean Richards Past Events

Easter Tea Everyone enjoyed a very pleasant afternoon tea with a super variety of cakes all made by Trevor and washed down with gallons of tea made and served by our very willing helpers. We were entertained by Andrew who sung many of the old songs that we all know so were able to join in. Towards the end of the afternoon some of us joined him dancing to his music. Our thanks to all our helpers, and thanks also for our delightful table decorations.

DEBATING SOCIETY

The Debating Society’s 3rd meeting was held in Adams Hall pending the completion of the Notley refurbishment, on Friday 28th March 2014 to discuss “Is Stop and Search Necessary”

The numbers attending the debates continue to grow. We were not disappointed by John P’s presentation of the question. He said police need funding and training to be fair and unprejudiced. During the ensuing discussion, the media were criticized for its distorted reporting of stop and search, targeting some sectors of the community. Much useful information was shared and the meeting closed with an almost unanimous vote in favour of the question.

Gordon St will propose that “Britain should become a Republic” and Anne A will respond at the next debate on 13th June 2014 at 3pm in the Notley Lounge. Beverages and biscuits will be available.

For further details of the Debating Society, contact Gordon Sadler on 020 8777 1059 2 CHURCH SERVICES MAY 2014

SUNDAY 4th May Service in the Chamberlain Lounge at 4.30pm Conducted by St Francis/St Mary’s

TUESDAY 13th May Bencurtis Christian Fellowship in the Chamberlain Lounge at 7.30pm

No Holy Communion in May

BINGO -7pm ADAMS HALL – WEDNESDAYS TRADITIONAL BINGO CARD BINGO 14th May 7th May CANCELLED 28th May 21st May

NEW PLAYERS WILL BE VERY WELCOME – SO COME ALONG AND JOIN US

WHIST – Mondays 6.30pm for 6.45pm start Notley Lounge - We welcome new members

There will be no meeting of the Whist Club on Bank Holiday Mondays 5th & 26th May

Any enquiries to Jean or Chris Turner , Flat 61 Sarjeant Court Telephone 87761804

D A R T S The Darts group extend a warm welcome to any ladies or gentlemen to join them on any Monday, Wednesday or Friday 3pm–4.30pm Chamberlain Lounge, Willis Court.

FITNESS LIFE SKILLS CLASSES MONDAY MORNINGS 10am – 10.55am IN THE NOTLEY LOUNGE Fitness sessions are to help with everyday life skills. Endurance to help with walking & doing activities for longer periods. Nutrition advice – learn about eating healthy foods –portion sizes to help towards ideal weight. For more information Helen Freeman – 07958 578992 – email [email protected]

Everyday Gentle Exercise Group Meets in the Notley Lounge 2-3pm Mondays (excepting Bank Holidays and first Monday in the month) Donation of £2 per session per person

3 BRIDGE Bridge is played every Tuesday morning in the Notley Lounge 10am-12noon Contact Peter Wakeford, 17 Sarjeant Court, Tel: 020 8777 3879 New Players are always very welcome

BENCURTIS LIBRARY, WILLIS COURT The Library is open on Tuesday & Friday afternoons 3-4pm Books and CDs are all available All residents are welcome to use the library

NOTLEY LOUNGE COFFEE MORNINGS – 10am every Wednesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday AFTERNOON TEA – 3pm everyday EVERYONE WELCOME

Bencurtis Park Short Mat Bowling Club Tuesdays & Thursday until 20th May and then just Tuesdays 2-5pm Adams Hall

Our Winter season was closed on 22nd April by an end of season party. I thank all our members for their support during the season, particularly those who regularly clear the tables and chairs and put them back after play and the stalwarts who have assisted in putting the mats and equipment out. I also thank Olive Hay for organizing our refreshments during our twice weekly games and home matches.

I am delighted to say that Alan Jordan has agreed to allow his name to be put forward for appointment as captain to take over from me at our AGM in September.

Gates Green SMBC won our match with them on the 18th April and so have retained the Molly & Don Hutchinson Memorial Cup. I regret to say we lsot both our friendly matches with Shirley SMBC.

We will be continuing to play bowls on Tuesday afternoons during the summer commencing on 20th May. We continue to look for new members including those who have not previously played any bowls at all. You will find us friendly, welcoming and helpful! Coaching is available from our qualified coach by arrangement. The subscription for the season which runs from 1st October is £2 and the ‘green fee’ for each day’s play is only £1 including refreshments.

Chris Turner, Secretary, 61 Sarjeant Court, 8776 1804

CHESS CLUB The Chess Club has 3 members who meet periodically But would welcome any new members contact Gordon Sadler on 8777 1059

The Jubilee Singers The choir meets in Adams Hall – Every Friday at 7.30pm If you enjoy singing, now is the time to come along and join us 4 Recorded Music Group Meetings take place on the SECOND Friday of each month In the Chamberlain Lounge 2–3 pm –Everyone Welcome 30p If anyone has any bright ideas for a programme which they would like to present or have someone present it for them please Contact Eileen Stalley on 020 8777 1563

9th May Jean Richards presents “Favourite Dances & Marches from the Proms.

DATES FOR YOUR DIARY – INFORMATION ON OUR OUTINGS & ENTERTAINMENT

MONDAY 16 th JUNE WORTHING Tuesday 27th May Notice on Board Tuesday 10th June Money collected 11-11.30 Chamberlain Lounge Cost £15

THURSDAY 19 th JUNE TITSEY PLACE Tuesday 13th May Notice on Board Tuesday 27th May Money collected 11-11.30 Chamberlain Lounge Cost £29

WEDNESDAY 25 TH JUNE DAY IN THE NEW FOREST Tuesday 27th May Notice on Board Tuesday 10th June Money collected 11 – 11.30 Chamberlain Lounge Cost £39

FRIDAY 11 TH JULY SUFFOLK COASTAL TOUR Tuesday 3rd June Notice on Board Tuesday 27th June Money collected 11-11.30 Chamberlain Lounge Cost £38

WEDNESDAY 23 RD JULY CAMBRIDGE RIVER CAM Tuesday 17th June Notice on Board Tuesday 1st July Money collected 11-11.30 Chamberlain Lounge Cost £32

MAY DATES Friday 9th May Recorded Music Group, 2-3pm Chamberlain Lounge Monday 12th May Tea & Talk in Adams Hall – Canine Partners Wednesday 14th May Croquet Meeting in the Notley Lounge Tuesday 20th May Cribbage Club meeting – Notley Lounge 3pm Wednesday 21st May Glass Fusion Demonstration 2.30pm Adams Hall Saturday 24th May Scottish Dancers & Friends 2pm Adams Hall Wednesday 28th May Official Opening of Conservatory 2.30pm Notley Lounge

5 FUTURE DATES Friday 13th June The Debating Society 3pm Notley Lounge Monday 16th June Worthing Wednesday 25th June Day in the New Forest Friday 11th July Suffolk Coastal Tour Wednesday 23rd July Cambridge & River Cam Monday 11th August The Cotswolds River Thames Explorer Wednesday 27th August Biddenden Vineyard & Winterdale Cheesemakers Monday 15th September Eastbourne (please note change of date) Thursday 25th September Leeds Castle Flower Festival Saturday 15th November Christmas Bazaar Wednesday 26th November Mighty Wurlitzer Christmas Concert and London Lights

TEA & TALK MONDAY 12th MAY

Please join us for this month’s tea & talk Eileen is bringing her dog Icharus to tell us about their life together

2.30 – 3.00 Adams Hall Tea & biscuits served – Everyone welcome A donation box will be available for the Canine Partners Charity

Croquet Meeting – Wednesday 14th May 2.30pm Notley Lounge For anyone interested in playing Beginners welcome

CRIBBAGE

TUESDAY 20th MAY NOTLEY LOUNGE 3pm

Further to our initial games afternoon in March, we shall be having a meeting in the Notley Lounge to discuss the possibility of starting a cribbage club with the idea of having a date and times to teach the game and also for those who already play. Please do join us if you are interested.

6 Glass Fusion Demonstration Wednesday 21st May 2.30pm Adams Hall

Join in a different afternoon and try a new activity for yourself.

Karen Harris will be giving a 20 minute demonstration of fused glass using moulds and coloured glass powders. Afterwards there will be an opportunity for some people to try their hand at using the equipment and making a small article e.g. fridge magnet etc. for themselves at a cost of £5 per person.

SCOTTISH DANCERS & THEIR GUESTS Saturday 24th May 2pm Adams Hall

We are delighted to welcome back the Orpington Scottish Dancers and their guests to entertain us. After their energetic dancing they will join us for the usual refreshments of tea & cake

The Official Opening of Conservatory Wednesday 28th May 2.30pm Notley Lounge

Mr Richard Griffin LVO has agreed to formally open the new conservatory. Mr Griffin worked as a Royal protection Officer with the Metropolitan Police for many years retiring in 2013 after spending his last years in the force protecting the Queen during Her Jubilee year and the Olympics. He will share with us some of his photos, stories and memories. Tea & cakes will be served

OUTING TO WORTHING - MONDAY 16TH JUNE COST £15 DEPART BENCURTIS 9.30 am RETURN BENCURTIS 6.30pm (approx)

7 Titsey Place Thursday 19th June £29 to include cream tea Depart Bencurtis Park 1pm Return approx. 6pm

Although Titsey Place is virtually on our doorstep it is a well kept secret. There has been a dwelling on the site since Roman Times and the ruins of a Roman Villa. The history has been documented from the fifteen hundreds to the present day. In 1974 when the brothers Richard, Thomas and Charles lived at Titsey Place they restored the house and garden, after the war time requisitioning and occupation by Canadian Troops. Together they established The Titsey Foundation allowing them to open to the public.

The main construction of the house dates from 1775. Titsey Place is noted for its fine collection of family portraits from such artists as Sire Joshua Reynolds and Peter Lely. Other highlights of the tour include the new dining room, paneled sitting room, the galleried bedroom with splendid Georgian interior décor.

The gardens are worth visiting, long views across the Darenth Valley, walled kitchen garden restored in 1996 and conservatory with exotic flowers. After strolling in gardens we can enjoy tea cakes in the old dairy building refurbished in 2007.

A Day in the New Forest Wednesday 25th June Cost £39 to include transport, guide, coffee & lunch Depart Bencurtis 8.30am Return approx. 7.30pm

Meeting our Blue Badge Guide at a country pub near Landforth off the A36 Salisbury Road for morning coffee with biscuits after which we shall slip into the forest following the footsteps of Kings & Queens, commoners, gypsies, smugglers and lovers. Over the past thousand years myth and legends abound in the forest trees like a clinging vine.

Our guide will take us through the forest to the Rufus Stone commemorating the death of William II, and visit picturesque villages, returning to an 18th century coaching inn pub for a shepherds pie lunch or vegetarian option. After lunch we shall visit a thatched village where Sir Arthur Conan Doyle is buried, and then through to Lyndhurst the “capital” of the forest.

Final stop in Beulieu its origins dating back to the thirteenth century of King John, we shall be able to choose between two or three places selling tea to round off our day. Returning home approx. 7pm

City of Cambridge – River Cam Wednesday 23rd July £32 to include boat trip & cream tea

Departing Bencurtis at 9am we hope to arrive in the City by 11am in time for coffee, before boarding the Riverboat Georgina at 3pm. There will be plenty of time to take a City Sightseeing bus then have a light lunch before boarding the Georgina from Jesus Lock Chesterton Road for our 2 hour cruise on the River Cam with cream tea.

Departing after the boat trip we hope to return to Bencurtis at approximately 7pm

Trinity College gatehouse 8 statute of King Henry VIII

Please note the cancellation of outing to Swanage Railway on Wednesday 6th August.

We have now planned: The Cotswolds River Thames Explorer Monday 11th August £42 inclusive

Meeting our Blue Badge Guide we start in a hidden village for morning coffee at a pub on the Thames, follow the infant river to the Saxon town of Cricklade, visit a splendid small Cotswolds market town to see the most important medieval stained glass in the country and enjoy a two course lunch in the attractive hotel on the market square.

We spend the afternoon in the old inland port of Lechlade enjoying a little meander along the Thames in a replica of a traditional Edwardian launch, going as near to the source of the river that a powered boat will allow. The day includes coffee with biscuits, two course lunch and a donation to Fairford Church and the river cruise.

N O T I C E S

HEARING AID MAINTENANCE CLINIC DATES FOR 2014

Call in to have your NHS Hearing Aid cleaned and collect new batteries – all free of charge Just bring your brown battery book or your Hearbase hearing aid guide book along

12.15-1.15pm In the Support Plus Office (opposite the Shop in Sarjeant Court) On the following dates (all Fridays):

19th September 20th June 17th October 18th July 21st November 15th August 19th December

GARDENS

Would any resident likes to take on a small area in the gardens to look after? There are two at the moment with which we need help to maintain

o The small, long bed under the new conservatory o The bed under the Notley Lounge windows

9 If you would like to volunteer to look after one of these please contact Graham Lilly and Joan Rees through the administration office

GLEBE COURT NEWS

We all enjoyed a lovely Easter at Glebe Court and all residents received a chocolate egg and a delicious lunch on Easter Sunday after watching the Easter Services on the BBC. Previously, we had made Easter cards and decorations and residents colourful posters were put up in the dining room. Thank you to everyone who supported our spring raffle and congratulations to the winners who happily took away their Easter treats.

Another highlight, before Easter, was the arrival of the incubator with the Living Eggs and residents and staff watched with interest as they started hatching and thoroughly enjoyed the playful antics of our 7 lively and fluffy chicks who were looked after so well by Sylvia and others.

The Church of England Communion Service continues to please residents with our vicars, Alison and Jonathan, alternating every month.

Ann and our greyhound Pat Dog, Twiggy, have been delighting residents every fortnight for the past 4 years and we are really grateful for their volunteering to do this for us.

Every volunteer who comes and gives up their own free time to spend with our residents is fantastic and much appreciated. It’s an added bonus for our residents on top of the great care we already give at Glebe Court. The more volunteers we have the more residents will benefit and so if you have some time I’d love to hear from you and hope you’ll give some thought to joining our team. We now have four roles for volunteers: Sensory, Befriending, Activities Support and Musician. Further details can be found on the National ‘Do It’ Website or, of course, from me – see below.

We are especially looking for Sensory Volunteers to progress our Namaste project, the aims of which are comfort and pleasure for our residents through sensory input such as holding hands, talking, listening to music etc. Could you spare one afternoon (2-5pm) a month? Your support would be appreciated and most welcome.

Residents have enjoyed the wonderful piano playing of our regular young man, Tristan, and Franz Hepburn, a bass baritone with a big voice, came to entertain residents who appreciated this different performance. SG Productions (sponsored by the Glebe Court Residents Support Group) performed ‘Gotta Sing Gotta Dance’ which certainly got everyone joining in enthusiastically singing and dancing. Our regular favourite Jamie Steen, dressed up and sang ‘Best of British’ for residents who couldn’t resist tapping their fingers and their feet to his lively show.

Joanna Brick, Activities Co-ordinator

Glebe Court Nursing Home Enquiries Tel no. 020 8462 6609 Fax no. 020 8462 9971 Email: [email protected] VOLUNTEERING ONLY: [email protected]

10 All contributions for next month’s News & Views need to be in by Friday 23rd May – please pass to the Administration Office

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