www.extracare.org.uk extraThe magazine dedicated to ExtraCare’s residentslife Mar/Apr 2015

Shenley Wood’s Hollywood

calendar goes global p.2 Support the Charity Shops that support you p.39-40 Join the ExtraCare Cycle Challenge p.63-64

Meet Cleaver The Critics Puzzle Page The History Inspectors Your Letters Recipes

Contents Dear Readers, Spring News! We’ve got so much news this Spring that we’re struggling to fit it all in! However, we must just mention Shenley Wood Village’s calendar By now you will know that I will be here – there’s no room anywhere else! stepping down as ExtraCare’s Chief Their Hollywood-themed calendar, which we first mentioned in Executive later this year (probably in December’s magazine, has taken the world by storm. It’s been featured on local, national and international news, including the Daily Mail, The early September). Sun, The Telegraph, The Mirror and even CNN and NBC’s Today show in America. Residents and staff were interviewed for ITV Anglia and Five It has been over five years since I joined this amazing Charity and began News. There was additional coverage in Spain and France! to experience the ExtraCare approach to an active later life. I came here thinking that I had seen most of what was good in housing with The idea was driven and delivered by residents, village staff and care and soon realised that what happens here is in a different league; volunteers and their photographer Ian Cann. genuine person-centred care and some of the best facilities, activities Resident Peter Mercer commented: “We never thought the interest in the and lifestyle opportunities available to older people in the UK. Most idea would reach these dizzy heights. It was a labour of love for the Village of all, I have been inspired by your enthusiasm, energy and kindness, and our wonderful community here.” whether you live in an ExtraCare community, volunteer or are a visiting family member or friend. I have been fortunate enough to work with The calendar contains iconic scenes from films such as Star Wars, White a team of colleagues who strive every day to do the best they can for Christmas, and the Wizard of Oz, and the idea was brought to life in less the people who have chosen to live in one of our locations. It has been than six weeks by a group of residents, Village Activity Facilitator Lauren an absolute pleasure and privilege to be ExtraCare’s CEO and to have McMillan, and photographer Ian Cann. enjoyed the support generously given by you all. Proceeds from the calendar are being used to support activities at My reasons for leaving are entirely personal - for many years I Shenley Wood Village. have not lived “at home” during the working week and I would What are your plans for 2016 calendars? Do write in and tell us - we’d like like to be around more. I hope to focus on non-executive roles to know. once I have moved back to East Anglia from Coventry. We’ve got lots more news and pictures in this edition – inspiring personal A recruitment and selection process is under way for my stories, development news, and contributions from every ExtraCare replacement and I expect an appointment will be made this Scheme and Village. See the contents page overleaf for more information! May. It’s much too early to start saying “Goodbye” – I will be Best wishes, around for several months more and there’s still many things I The Extralife Team need to do. Meanwhile, and most importantly, enjoy your latest issue of Extralife. Very best wishes to you all and thank you The Extralife is delivered four times a year to residents in March/ for all your support. extra April, June/July, September/October and December/January. life For more ExtraCare news, visit our website at www.extracare.org.uk Team You can keep up-to-date with all the latest news in our newsroom (link at the top right of the page). The newsroom also contains links to our social media pages – why not join our discussion on Facebook and Twitter, or watch ExtraCare’s latest videos on YouTube? Nick Our latest photos are available on our Flickr page at www.flickr.com/photos/extracare. Click on “Albums” to view different events around ExtraCare, or try searching by tag for your Scheme or Village. The Extralife Team: Front Cover: Richard Tower, Rose Downing, Shenley Wood’s Hollywood-themed Lucy Henson and Jon Cleaver calendar has taken the world by storm! extralife 2 Contents

Contents March/April 2015

ExtraCare News Regulars 5-23 News & Stories 44 Essential Advice 37-38 Pen to Paper 59 Glorious Food Another first for Coventry An update on ExtraCare’s  Your letters on snooker,  Mary Kirk from Reeve Court Valentine’s Day Capital Fund Scheme handbells and a very Village gives details of her Yates Court update special journey malt loaf recipe 45-46 Residents’ Forum 8 Humber’s garden makeover 39 ExtraCare’s newest Housing Services Manager 48 Wordswork 60 My Job Charity Shop Richard Keeley reports Poems to say thank you  ExtraCare’s Activities and Village development news on the work of the from Princethorpe Court Events Manager Donna Ball Residents’ Forum and Rosewood Court tells us about her job 27-32 People in Pictures 49-50 Gardening with 61-62 Puzzle Page Birthdays, pantomimes, Features Howard  A spring wordsearch from visits and much, much more! 9 25-26 Meet Cleaver  Howard Drury shares his Humber Court’s Pam Elam  Jon Cleaver talks to thoughts on the best way ExtraCare Issues Marianne Roberts from to buy plants Brunswick Gardens 48 24 The Big Question 53-54 IT Works A brief explanation and 47 The Critics  Head of IT Rowland Sandys update about the Care Act,  Residents from Broadway tells us about ExtraCare’s due to be implemented in Gardens share their plans for a new IT strategy April 2015 thoughts on Irish biscuits 12 33-34 Trustees 51-52 The History  We introduce three of Inspectors ExtraCare’s Trustees  A group from Berryhill 35-36 Valued Volunteers Village talk about some great poets  ExtraCare’s Organisation and Management 55-56 Fit! Development Manager The team at Ryfields Village Stephen Acklam updates us tell us what’s happening on the emerging picture of in their gym volunteering 49 57-58 Well-being 16 39-40 Sort It!  Chris, the Gym Instructor Elaine Henley shares at Lark Hill Village, explains an idea for supporting Otago classes and their ExtraCare’s Charity Shops benefits The benefits of Performance 57-58  41-42 63-64 Final Feature Otago classes Performance and Standards  ExtraCare’s trade body, Officer Julie Wakefield ARCO, is planning a explains the new CQC national open day to let fundamental standards more people know about and what they mean for ExtraCare the value of retirement communities – find out 43 Solving Complaints more! The Charity’s latest 26 complaints data 38 Annetta’s memorable journey 59 on the Orient Express extralife 4 News

It’s when the dementia impairs their safety or quality of life that support needs to step in. If, for example, the person has visual perception issues and Another first some of the less commonly known symptoms of dementia. Everyone experiences dementia differently and for Coventry... copes differently. We offer support for up to six weeks, ExtraCare’s Enriched Opportunities Programme® (EOP) supports working to understand the person’s residents with dementia or mental health issues. The Charity emotional and psychological needs while another organisation provides worked in partnership with Bradford University to develop the physical care. You can’t do one Programme. Based on state-of-the-art research and expertise without the other. ® in dementia care, dedicated Locksmiths work one-to-one with Lots of work we do is with the residents to develop tailor-made support and activities. partner or family. If we support them, we also support the person living with dementia. We help people to Our in-house – three weeks or more. People with understand the changes which can programme has dementia do have longer hospital take place when dementia becomes been around since stays than the general population. part of our lives. 2009. That’s six That alone can lead to more years of experience confusion and being frailer. We’re hoping to use this as a helping people live template and have more community- When people are discharged, rather independently. There based services, but whether we can than going to a residential home or was no reason why roll this out elsewhere will be based back to their own house and then it wouldn’t work in a on funding from local authorities. being admitted to hospital again, the community setting. goal is that they can go home and This service is referral only. However, There are a lot of stay there. if you have concerns about your people who are memory, ExtraCare does offer a I don’t think that residential care is struggling and need Healthy Minds Drop-In service, which often people’s first choice. People to access services. We’ve got to start offers information and advice to don’t know what’s out there and For more information, contact Michael Spellman on As part of a year-long by helping people who need a little anyone worried about their memory knowledge makes the difference 02476 506011 or [email protected] bit of extra support. We felt we could or overall well-being. pilot project, ExtraCare sometimes when it comes to staying meet that need. We’d talked to some is currently also working at home and keeping couples local authorities and Coventry picked in the community in together. Sometimes residential Meet Stephanie! it up. It’s especially exciting for us as care is the right option later on, but Coventry, supporting Coventry is ExtraCare’s hometown. Stephanie Danquah is ExtraCare’s Community Locksmith. She has a background in health people who have recently maybe not for a few years. Hospitals We work with people over the age are often reluctant to discharge and social care. been discharged from of 55 in the Coventry local authority people to their own homes, and She says: “I usually visit the people we’re working with twice a week, but it hospital. EOP Lead Michael area. People who are referred to that’s why a lot of people are Spellman explains: us have been in hospital and are discharged to residential care – all varies depending on what they need. Some people need me for an hour, living with some kind of cognitive but with this service, they know others I could stay with for three hours or more. impairment. Most of the people we people can have an OT, carers and a have worked with up until this point dedicated Locksmith supporting them. “I’m there to talk to about any concerns – I’m an extra set of ears! One are over 70. We look at a person’s home lady felt weak and wanted to improve her fitness, so we did exercises Most people who are referred to us circumstances. There are lots of people together. I’ve helped to chase up referrals to the memory clinic. My goal is have been in hospital for a long time living in the community with dementia. to help build people’s confidence.” extralife 6 News

Dot with some of The varieties on test were: her creations 4am – a delicious whole white leaf low in caffeine, ideal for Dot’s those early non-sleeping hours. Berry orange – made from pieces of strawberry, orange and knitting success lemongrass, refreshing and caffeine free. Rosie lee – light refreshing Darjeeling with a delicate floral tone, It’s only 18 months ago that Ryfields Village resident a lovely afternoon tea. Dot Woodage started knitting again but already her Proper mint tea – a delicious soothing mint tea made from skill with the needles has won her prizes. whole leaves, oh so minty! Excellent for digestion. Dot used to knit when her children were young, but she gave up Skinny tea – a smooth green tea without the bitter aftertaste, until recently – and now she has won awards at an ExtraCare made from whole leaves. event and also at a county show in Yorkshire. Out of milk – for when someone has drunk the last of the milk - Her knitted creations earned her a third prize at the ExtraCare Tea tasting! you can hardly taste the difference! Delicious whole white leaf. Summer Spectacular last year, but she collected even more awards when she went to stay with her sister Sue in Yorkshire and Activity Co-ordinator Lorraine Evans says: “The most they went to the Stokesley Show. A group from Brunel popular cup of tea overall was ‘Out of milk’, Dot explained: “I understand the show is one of the biggest in the Court recently enjoyed and in second place was ‘Proper mint tea’. north of England and I was thrilled when I collected a first prize, two second prizes and a third prize for my creations. I some specialist tea “And what, you may ask, are we drinking entered three toys in the knitted toy section including a Noah’s Ark which came first, and my Teddy Bear’s Picnic which came third. My egg cosies won a second and a third in another section. tasting sessions. today? Yorkshire tea bags!” “I’ve never entered my knitting in a competition before but I’ll continue to compete. It won’t make me rich but at least I collected the princely sum of £12 at the Yorkshire show!” Family history at St Dominic’s Court holds Reeve Court Craft challenge a craft challenge every Tuesday, and recently When Eric Knowles from the Antiques Roadshow visited Reeve Court, resident Val Woodward showed him a they invited their vase which was presented to her great-great-grandfather neighbours from Camoys Thomas Melling, a railwayman in the 19th century. Court to join them. Eric was so impressed with the vase that he said it should go in a The aim is to decorate pottery and on museum. Now Val, her sister Betty and son Andrew are considering this occasion they used trinket boxes whether to donate or loan it to the Railway Museum in York. which looked like cupcakes. Thomas was the first man to drive a train across the desert between According to Activities Co-ordinator Cairo and Suez in 1858 and he continued on this line for 20 years Eileen Hargreaves, who organised without a single accident. He also transported Dr Livingstone across the event, it was obvious everyone the desert and he was the driver on the first express train between enjoyed the challenge which was London and Birmingham before going to Egypt. followed by afternoon tea. In a lengthy article in the St Helens Reporter in 1867, it was reported that Thomas, after Fifteen residents from the two working on trains in this country, was employed in France on the line between Rouen and Schemes took part and those Paris and obtained a certificate as driver of the first class. produced by Eileen Sheridan from When he went to Egypt he drove a train carrying members of the Royal Family and St Dominic’s Court and Henry accomplished a record journey from Alexandria to Cairo, a distance of 131 miles, Ferniehough and Cona Rozendal without stopping. For this he received a gold watch and he received a second gold from Camoys Court were voted watch from the mother of the then-Viceroy of Egypt on her first journey to prayers at Joint winners Eileen, Henry and Cona the best. Tanta by rail.

extralife 8 News

New friends at Yates Court

Work is nearly complete at Yates Court, where an additional 48 one and two bedroom homes Beacon Park Village are set to open this year. Valentine’s Day residents staged a variety show for Valentine’s Future residents have been getting to know their new Schemes and Villages across ExtraCare marked Night. All of the funds neighbours through monthly Friends meetings, where Valentine’s Day with a series of parties, concerts raised went towards a staff and residents talk about life with ExtraCare and and other celebrations! new stage backdrop for attendees enjoy a couple of hours of coffee and chat. the Village hall! Enid Dallard has lived at Yates Court for nearly 16 years, and Enid Upton is due to move in later this year. They met when Enid Upton started attending Friends meetings, and really hit it off. Enid Dallard says: “The meetings are really nice. It gives us a chance to meet the new people, take them round and show them the scheme – that’s how I met Enid, I showed her my flat.” Enid Upton adds: “It’s been a joy to come in and meet people. Enid and I have just really hit it off!” She first decided to move when she heard about the plans to extend the Scheme. “Living in Evesham, I’ve known about Yates Court for a while. As I grew older, I thought that it might be a good idea to get my name down, and then my interest was rejuvenated when I saw the planning proposals. Doreen and John Barrett “In December I heard I’d been successful. I’m thrilled to be moving in. “Hopefully I shan’t need care for a long time, but my son lives in Milan and my other family are back in South Wales. You can’t expect people to drop everything and help. “I don’t want anyone to make a decision for me in a few years’ time. I want to make my own decisions while I’m fit enough!” It’s a big move for Enid, who has lived in the same house for 50 years. But she says she’s looking forward to it: “Where I am now, it wasn’t just my house – it was my husband’s, my son’s, my mother’s. This is just going to be my home. It’s a new start, coming here.” Enid Dallard has volunteered as an ExtraCare ambassador for years, and helped with the opening of several locations. John and Jean Faye, who She says: “This is my time. My life has been hectic, but moving have been married 61 years Lesley Anakin, a resident at School Court, said: “The day started here was my decision, and I’m having fun. Every day is special. with a healthy heart initiative with Pat, our Well-being Advisor. It’s home, isn’t it?” We then had a heart quiz, the first question being how many songs could we name with the word heart in it, this brought lots of All of the properties at Yates Court are now Imperial Court residents were also each laughter from everyone when Lorraine, our Activity Co-ordinator given a red rose on the day. The event at told us we had to sing our answers! Later on in the evening, lippy reserved. However, if you would like to join the the Scheme was free for residents to attend, on and all dressed in our red, the Valentine’s party commenced, waiting list, please contact Heather on as it was paid for by money raised during a starting off with a glass of bucks fizz and love songs. We were then [email protected] or 01386 40006. Enid Upton (standing) and Christmas raffle at ExtraCare’s Head Office. each presented with a red rose and a lovely ornament.” Enid Dallard (seated) extralife 10 News George’s New facilities at claim to fame Terryspring Court Pannel Croft resident George Residents at Terryspring Court are Saunders has a very special enjoying some exciting new facilities claim to fame: he was a at their Scheme! well-known tailor who ran a The shop, which used to be run by the business in the historic back- Residents’ Association, has now been rented to-backs in Hurst Street, out by Dean Woakes, who is able to keep it Birmingham. His shop is now open seven days a week. Before opening, he spoke to residents to find out what products part of a museum operated by they would like, and he even makes trips out the National Trust. at lunchtime to pick up extra bits and pieces that residents request during the day. George came to Birmingham from the Manager Zoe Hopkins says: “Especially in the Caribbean island of St Kitts in 1958 winter, it’s ideal for residents to live and shop and planned to become a tailor, like his under one roof, giving them plenty of choice.” Resident Ivy Cain with Dean father. He opened his first shop in 1968. The shop isn’t the only new initiative at the Business grew through word of mouth. Scheme: Mickey Johnson, who used to be George made garments for famous a member of the care team, now runs MJ’s names including musician Steve Silver Spa. Gibbons, made clothes for performers The spa, which used to be the assisted who came to the Hippodrome, and also bathroom and a changing room, is extremely made trousers for the Horse Guards. popular, and Mickey comes in every day to He made thousands of suits. “The run the spa and nail bar, give massages, sell Mods were very popular in those toiletries and provide hydrotherapy. Because days,” he recalls. “On a Saturday, from the spa is on site, Mickey is even able about 9 o’clock, you had the boys on to offer an additional service and their scooters, they would park their help residents back to their apartments if scooters and come in one after the necessary. other for me to measure them up and Mickey explains that her costs are much make their suits.” lower than local spas or shops. Residents who Mickey in the spa George believes the secret of being a good tailor is “dedicated effort,” and an interest in what you are doing and the have just moved in find it very convenient to feedback from your customers. have somewhere on site where they can buy toiletries. He says: “My greatest pleasure was to see a man come into my shop and I would ask him to go into the fitting room and try on a suit that I had made for him. When he came out he would say: ‘I am not going to take it off, I’m going to walk out Local GPs are in support of the project, and in this suit.’ That made me feel on top of the world.” Mickey has 11 clients from the community as well as Terryspring Court residents. George retired in 2001, and donated items, including machinery, to the museum. Zoe says: “We didn’t have the money for it His wife Mildred died several years ago, and George moved to Pannel Croft in November 2012. to be properly converted or for an extension, Now 83, he has diabetes and weak legs, and he knew there would be care available at the Village if he needed it. but Mickey had the idea and said to leave He knew he would also enjoy the company of the other residents. He missed the laughter and conversation in his shop. it to her. She’s done a great job! Just before Two of the ladies who used to work for him live at Pannel Croft. George is planning to help out with a sewing group at the Christmas, people were queuing out of the Village, and an apprentice tailor also comes to him for advice. “I can pass on my experience, that’s all I want to do,” he says. door to buy presents from her.” George’s name is now above the door of his tailor’s shop in Hurst Street. “Even when I am gone it is going to be there,” he Mickey says: “I love doing it – long may it continue!” says. “I feel I have achieved something. I didn’t waste my time.” Mickey with resident Maureen Harber extralife 12 News

Dancing at Brian’s Birthday celebrations! New Oscott spinning wheel

Barry, Vic and Rex, with Brian (seated)

Residents, staff and volunteers at James Beattie House have celebrated the Scheme’s 15th birthday. Pictures by Peter Wolstenholme Activity Co-ordinator Liz Evans said that the group celebrated with Brian Hawley had planned to make a spinning “a fantastic buffet with plenty of Thirty residents from New Oscott Village joined forces with bubbly and loads of fun!” children from Highclare School, Erdington, for a workshop wheel for his daughter Lynn for some time. Scheme Manager Julie Hogan involving the ballet Coppélia. When he and his wife Brenda moved to Brunswick Gardens Village in 2008, he presented staff and volunteers with bought the wood and his eldest daughter Jane found some drawings for him gifts and cards. The event, held at the Village, was part of a Speight of the Art presentation and the to work from. Brian joined other residents in the woodwork shop, and started founder, Oliver Speight, also attended along with members of Birmingham Royal work on the spinning wheel. Liz added: “Our residents had a Ballet Company, who were working on Coppélia at the time. great time singing and dancing Unfortunately, Brian recently had a stroke, and admitted to Brenda and his along with our entertainer Lynsey - Village Activities Facilitator Paul Knight explains that those taking part were friends in the woodwork shop that he did not think he would be able to finish what a fab day was had by all!” involved in dance and movement based on the ballet and were also shown the project. costumes used by the dancers. The celebrations were part of an Fellow resident Vic Gould offered to continue with the work for him, and, along eventful week for residents at the Speight of the Art is a charity run by Oliver, who set it up in memory of his son with Barry Blackburn and Rex Skipper, spent several months completing the Scheme, who also took a trip to a Mark, TV personality and former presenter of Art Attack. spinning wheel. school pantomime, had a visit from Mark’s parents decided to create something good out of the tragedy by keeping Vic says: local pupils, and went to a third Mark’s memory alive, and set up the organisation which allows children to school for lunch. experience art in its various formats. “I’m glad that we could do it for Brian.” The completed spinning wheel extralife 14 News A flying visit! Amazing community volunteers

Oliver (middle) and Co-op staff volunteers

School Court residents Ben Greenhough and Eric Lorraine and Oliver with residents and staff Farr visited RAF Cosford with volunteer Gerald Griffiths and Locksmith Steph Wilkinson recently. Both residents were extremely interested in the trip, as one was an ex Brunel Court have forged Activity Co-ordinator Lorraine background for our new planting. Two serviceman in the Royal Engineers and the other was an ex RAF gun operator. an amazing link with their Evans says: “I wrote to the manager teams of five dug up some old well- of our local store. As part of their rooted bushes, which cleared an area Steph says: “The exhibits on show evoked many memories of the days that local Co-op. employment contract, Co-op staff are that residents were able to cultivate. both spent in service, the uniforms that were worn, the “digs” that were lived encouraged to volunteer within their in and the lovely homecomings. Eric was thrilled that there was a real life “During both of these visits residents community. “gun bubble” that he used to sit in when he fired the gun on his beloved B24 went out into the garden to find Liberator bomber plane and although the signs clearly stated “do not touch the “Co-op Manager Oliver Holden came out who they were and what they exhibits”, who is going to tell that to an ex serviceman? to see us and we explained about were doing, and to offer advice. This our proactive attitude to forging led to friendships forming and a lot “We also got to see the passenger plane Comet that is often discussed over community links. Oliver’s response to of positivity! lunch in our restaurant – another resident, Stephen Harnett, once worked on it his staff becoming actively involved as cabin crew. “The staff are now immersed in Brunel with our residents was extremely Court and the ethos of ExtraCare. “As daylight faded we realized we were among the last two cars on the car park. positive, and so our link began! “I would highly recommend forging “By the time we had loaded the car with our souvenirs from the gift shop – “The main area we needed help with links with your local store. It has been where Eric got a salute from the staff – and the wheelchairs and blankets, we was the garden, our residents enjoy a very enriching experience for our were indeed the last to leave! planting and tending but no longer staff and residents and raised our own have the stamina for the heavier “We all had a lovely time there and would like to return. A special thank you has local community profile. to go to volunteer Gerald. Without his help the day could not have gone ahead.” work. 12 volunteers repainted our perimeter fences, leaving a lovely “We certainly struck gold!” extralife 16 News

Life-saving support at Hagley Road Village Silver surfers! Burns Night Sarah-Jane with resident Enjoying the traditional meal at Imperial Court Each year, 25th January marks the Janet Jeffs annual celebration of Scotland’s national poet Robert Burns. This year, Schemes and Villages across ExtraCare held their own commemorations. Sharon Berry, Activity Co-ordinator at Willowbrook, says: “Forty residents and relatives took to the main lounge for a Scottish supper that consisted of Scotch broth for starter, haggis and neeps for main and cranachan for dessert. After tea we watched some Scottish dancers perform before raising a whisky toast to the piper!” Andy Jeynes with Well-being Advisor Faye Palmer-Hendy, John and Kath Yates, Ron and Elizabeth Heath and Village Imperial Court also invited a local Receptionist Natalie Haskins piper along for their event, which Activity Co-ordinator Ray Fortuin says everyone really enjoyed. Hagley Road Village is one of many ExtraCare locations to receive a defibrillator and training Resident Marion Laing, who is Sarah-Jane and Ellie Critchley originally from Scotland, read the from West Midlands Ambulance Service recently. Scots poem and cut the haggis at 20 residents and staff at Hagley Road Village went through Princethorpe Court’s commemoration. the training sessions in December, including John and Residents at Sunley Court Kath Yates. They learnt first aid, CPR and how to use the defibrillator, which is housed in the main Village reception. are enjoying a new activity John said: “Kath and I decided to do the training along with from their new Activity residents and staff so that we can help our neighbours. Co-ordinator, Sarah-Jane Irons. “What most impressed me about the device was that it Resident computers in the Scheme have recently actually tells you what to do. If I forgot the training, I would been updated, and Sarah-Jane has started offering Raising a toast at Willowbrook! still be comfortable using it. some tuition on both the resident computers and “It’s a comfort to know that it’s there and it’s a state of the residents’ own laptops and tablets. It has proved art thing which is a big aid to help bring you back if you have very popular and residents are even booking one-to- Imperial Court invited a cardiac arrest.” one sessions to learn at their own pace. their local piper Andy Jeynes, the Trust’s Community Response Manager, added: Sarah-Jane says: “They have been a huge success. We cover everything from basic keyboard skills “For every minute that someone is in and google searching to setting up email accounts, cardiac arrest, their chance of survival Facebook, Skype, and, most importantly, internet diminishes by ten percent. CPR and shopping! defibrillation in the early stages of “The residents are really enjoying these sessions and cardiac arrest could save their life and I’m finding it extremely rewarding.” it is something that anyone can do. She adds that IT classes aren’t the only technological activity on the schedule: “We have We’re proud to work alongside also done an activity of bowling on the Nintendo Photos from top Wii which we really had fun with!” ExtraCare to help look after their Traditional dancing at Willowbrook residents and staff alike.” Marion from Princethorpe with the haggis extralife 18 News Humber Court’s ExtraCare’s newest Garden Makeover charity shop Before… ExtraCare’s latest Charity Shop has opened in Partington, Greater Manchester, and local MP Kate Green was among the many visitors. According to Manager Donna Cox, the shop was very busy and exceeded all expectations on the first day and has been busy ever since. The shop was already stocked with a large variety of goods, passed on from other charity shops and donated by local people. Steven Donna said: “We hope that more and more local people will provide us Customers Sue Frost and with items we can sell to support our Schemes and Villages.” Kirsty Harlems with volunteer Jez Clark and Manager Donna Cox Donna is supported by deputy manager Declan Mitchell. At the opening she had three volunteers but more will be joining her soon. ExtraCare’s Shops Director Alison Whittingham, who visited the shop on the first day, said she was very impressed and so were the customers she spoke to. “I’m sure the shop will go from strength to strength,” she commented. The shop will be open from 8.30am to 4.30pm from Monday to Saturday and will open on Sundays in the future.

… and after! Volunteer of the year! An innovative garden makeover project planned, designed and constructed by Humber Court’s Activities Co-ordinator, Steven Savage, has proved a hit with the residents who now cannot wait for the warm summer days! Congratulations to Leicester shop volunteer Stephen Stephen has volunteered at ExtraCare The £5,000 project took three months to complete and includes a 22ft long butterfly house with a pathway running from Tebbutt, who won Volunteer of the Year at the Leicester Shops for 15 years. He collected the top to bottom of the garden, leading down to a pond. award from ITV weather presenter Mercury Carer of the Year Awards. Emma Jesson, and was then treated, Steven spent many long hours after work throughout the winter months in the activities room, constructing the along with the other winners, to a butterfly house in sections and taking it outside where he joined the sections together like a jigsaw. champagne reception and meal. “The activities room came in handy,” Steven said, “not only for the construction of the butterfly house, but when we had Winners at the to bring the turf cutter in, we drove it through the front door to the activities room and through to the garden!” Shop Manager Maureen Lee said: award ceremony “Stephen is a much valued volunteer, any Steven marked out the pathway before MB Contractors came in to lay the path in order to conform to health and job he does is to a very high standard. safety regulations. MB, who were brought in by Peter Greenway, husband of Administrator Nichola Greenway, waived Stephen is an excellent all-rounder who their fee of £6,000. tries to help any way he can. He often Resident Peggy Fogg’s son and daughter Tony and Dianne Fogg helped plant the borders that include sensory flora each takes the new volunteers under his wing side of the path and a memory garden. They will also help with general maintenance. when they first start, giving them any Russell’s Garden Centre, Coventry, supplied plants at a generous discount, also donating a number. help he can. I am so grateful for all the help Stephen has given!” There is also a wild flower bed and apple trees. A rustic rail permeates along the path, winding its way to the raised beds and pond. If you would like to volunteer in any of the ExtraCare Charity Shops, please Steven said: “The makeover challenge of 2013 created the process and provided the vision for the complete garden visit www.extracare.org.uk or call picture, where residents on warm summer evenings can meander or sit and take in a relaxing atmosphere while variant 02476 506011 to find your local shop. aromas drift on the evening air. We would love to see you! “Every blister, every sore, ache and pain has been worth it. Roll on spring and summer!” extralife 20 News

Applications now open at New Here’s a quick guide to other Hughenden Village Village News ExtraCare Villages in development... High Wycombe Earlsdon Park Village Number of Homes: 260. If you are interested in living in any of the Villages on this page, please Type of Homes: One and two bedroom register your application interest by phoning 0870 777 4800. Keep up apartments, with hallway, kitchen, living with ExtraCare’s latest development news at www.extracare.org.uk room, shower room. Facilities: 18 health and leisure facilities, landscaped gardens, parking. Status: Land agreement finalised. Planning Construction begins at permission submitted. Construction Begins: Anticipated 2015 (subject to planning permission). Longbridge Village Opens: Anticipated 2017. The first Village Friends meeting Stoke Gifford Village South Gloucestershire Applications have opened at Earlsdon Park Village, ExtraCare’s first retirement village in Number of Homes: 261. Type of Homes: One and two bedroom Coventry, due to open in summer 2016. apartments, with hallway, kitchen, living People who are interested in purchasing a property are invited to contact the Sales Team now on room, shower room. [email protected] or 0300 303 2333. Facilities: 18 health and leisure facilities, landscaped gardens, parking. Rental applications are expected to open towards the end of the year, but you can register your interest now by calling Status: Land agreement in negotiation for 0300 303 2333 or emailing [email protected]. potential planning application in 2015. The Village, a partnership with Coventry City Council, will have 262 one and two bedroom apartments, each with their Construction Begins: Anticipated late own kitchen, shower room, living room and hallway. 2016 (subject to planning permission). Village Opens: Anticipated 2018. Earlsdon Park Village’s Commissioning Manager, Lesley Blowers, is already leading monthly Friends meetings, which Peter Hay (front), Strategic Director, Adults and Communities, with welcome older members of the local community whether they wish to move to the Village or simply become social Birmingham councillors and Longbridge residents members of the new community. Around 250 people attended the first meetings. Work began last month on ExtraCare’s fifth Village in Birmingham. Bedford Village Lesley says: “Sessions look in detail at a range of topics including care, activities and moving home. And, of course, one of A site celebration marked the start of construction of the Village, a Wixams, Bedford the main elements of Friends is the social involvement!” major milestone for ExtraCare and the city. Number of Homes: 230. Type of Homes: One and two bedroom You can call 0300 303 2333 and select Earlsdon Park Village to find out more about Friends. The three and five storey Village, Nick Abbey, ExtraCare’s Chief apartments, with hallway, kitchen, living To learn more about the Village, visit www.earlsdonparkvillage.co.uk or find us on Facebook at due to open in 2017, will provide Executive, said: “We are delighted room, shower room. www.facebook.com/EarlsdonPark 260 one and two bed apartments that Birmingham City Council’s Facilities: 18 health and leisure facilities, carefully designed to encourage bold vision for older people has landscaped gardens, parking. and support an independent and come to fruition; five Villages Status: Planning approved. enriching lifestyle. Up to 50 jobs will are now confirmed with three Construction Begins: Anticipated 2016. Bournville construction continues be delivered, with a further 200 jobs complete, one in Bournville Village Opens: Anticipated 2018. on site during the construction phase. opening this year and the fifth in ExtraCare’s fourth Birmingham Village is due to open in late Longbridge under construction. In 2008, ExtraCare pledged to 2015, set in a 10-acre site on Bristol Road South. There are 212 We thank the City Council, our Solihull Village build five Birmingham Villages in one and two bedroom apartments available for purchase, shared housing partners and the many partnership with the City Council. Shirley, Solihull ownership or rental. supporters across this city who The start of work in Longbridge Number of Homes: 260. have tirelessly ensured this Most of the sales and shared ownership apartments at Bournville Gardens have marks the final stage in the £200m Type of Homes: One and two bedroom ambitious vision becomes reality. already been reserved, so if you’d like to purchase a home, contact the Sales development programme, the largest apartments, with hallway, kitchen, living We also thank the hundreds of Team on 0300 303 2333 or [email protected] now! project of its kind in the UK. room, shower room. local older people, volunteers, Facilities: 18 health and leisure facilities, People who have reserved apartments are now in the process of putting their Birmingham Councillor John Cotton, families and friends who have landscaped gardens, parking. homes on the market and finding a suitable buyer, in preparation for making Cabinet Member for Health & shaped these Villages and Status: Currently working towards the move to Bournville Gardens at the end of the year. Wellbeing, and Peter Hay, Strategic ensured they are at the heart of submission for planning. Director, Adults and Communities, Birmingham’s community life.” Construction Begins: Anticipated 2016. were among the 100 guests at a Find out more at Village Opens: Anticipated 2018. For more pictures, brochures, maps and dates, visit www.bournvillegardens.co.uk celebration involving the burial of a www.longbridgevillage.co.uk or join Bournville Gardens on Facebook at www.facebook.com/bournvillegardens time capsule on site. 22 News The Big Question

Audrey Smalling, a member of Bushfield’s Day Centre, Audrey climbed has finally achieved a lifelong Care Act ambition and had her autobiography, A Mountain to her mountain Climb, published. update Born in Kingston, Jamaica, in 1953, Audrey came to England at the age Following Royal Assent in 2014, of five and a half. She grew into a most parts of the Care Act will be competitive athlete, a keen dancer and acrobat, being earmarked for the implemented in April 2015. Royal Ballet School. In January 1973, just after her 19th birthday, she was This should mean a major shift in emphasis by local in a serious car crash that left her authorities from crisis response to more preventative and paralysed from a spinal cord injury to person-centred services. There are also a lot of changes her neck. intended to modernise care and make it more consistent across Audrey was finally discharged from different parts of England. the Orthopaedic Hospital in Oswestry, after going through 12 months of The Department of treatment and rehabilitation. In the Health have launched a following years, she regained her campaign to raise public feisty personality and became an awareness – look out for advocate for disability and people posters and literature in who needed help. your local area telling you how and where to find out more. Her fight continued over many years to provoke action from authority How this plays out in practice remains to be seen, for those affected by disabilities, given the context of reducing budgets on care generally pursued under extremely difficult and and older persons’ services in particular. A small group challenging conditions. of location managers, together with Liz Alvey, ExtraCare’s Contracts & New Services Manager, Fitness Instructor Marie Barley says: will be monitoring implementation by the partner “Audrey came to Bushfield six years authorities we work with. If you or someone you know ago and is a vibrant, active and often is receiving care and experiences changes as a result of outspoken member of the centre. the Care Act being implemented in April, we would love to Audrey has a terrific sense of humour hear from you. Please email Liz on [email protected] and helps not only the staff but other or write to her at Head Office – The ExtraCare Charitable Trust, 7 service users who value her straight Harry Weston Road, Binley Business Park, Coventry, CV3 2SN. talking and advice. Audrey had a mountain to climb and she reached One of the most publicised elements of The Care Act doesn’t come into the summit, which is a tribute to her force until April 2016. This is the introduction of a capped amount that undaunted spirit.” people who pay for their own care will have to pay. How this will work in practice is very complex. Anyone who would like a copy of this book can go to The Department of Health has been inviting public views about this www.lulu.co.uk and the new appeals system that is also due to be introduced in 2016. and type in More information is available at http://careact2016.dh.gov.uk A Mountain to Climb.

extralife 24 Meet Cleaver

The Resistance Movement Marianne As the threat of war increased, Marianne joined the resistance, on information and intelligence. “I knew members of the Secret Circle,” she said. “They had been reduced by three following their Meet Cleaver unexplained deaths.” Marianne’s brief was to join an exclusive officers club in town frequented by members of the Jon Cleaver interviews Marianne Roberts... German high command as a hostess. She said: “I was well protected and fraternisation was forbidden.” Marianne’s role was to listen for any “The Nazis were on the rise Early Nazi Fear disenchantment in officer ranks and in the 1920s. The Jews Marianne Roberts, a resident of “We didn’t have dolls to play with; we report back, which she did. Brunswick Gardens, was recalling how had babies to care for,” Marianne said. were in danger. Prominent “Many honourable men, around 200, the Baron and prominent villagers “Boys and girls were forced to join members in our village, along were captured or shot,” she said. where she was born in Bonn formed a the Hitler Youth at ten, you had no with my grandfather, formed “Some were strung up on piano wire. group to assist Jewish families choice.” Many of the boys were proud The perpetrators were brutal and a group dedicated to helping flee the country to safety as Hitler of their uniforms, not knowing their unrelenting.” Jewish families out of the came to power. implications. country to safety. Hitler Marianne said: “Suddenly the Nazis All 18 year olds were forced to join seized power in 1933 and were coming out of the woodwork. the Nazi Party. Marianne said: “If you Village Life under the French refused, you were shunted off as a the persecution of the Jews We had two Nazi teachers, one in a black SS paramilitary uniform and one subversive, many just disappeared.” started with a vengeance.” Born to Peter and Pauline Müller Fortunately for Marianne, by the time in 1927 at Bonn in the Rhineland, in brown. They taught us housewifery and childcare.” she reached 18, the war was coming Marianne grew up asking questions. to an end. “I was,” she said, “the bane of The Nazis imposed the Aryan principle my grandparents’ lives. Marianne, of pure race. “Hitler was after the they said, why do you ask all perfect German stock, those not pure End of War these questions?” German were hounded mercilessly, As the end of the war came, Marianne In 1947, Marianne came to Britain to Aged four, Marianne attended the sent to camps, or killed. It didn’t recalled the horror of Dresden: “The escape. She lived in Mansfield before village convent school. Rhineland, matter that your family went back Americans and British destroyed moving to Eastbourne, where she during this period, had been occupied generations; if you weren’t of German Dresden, but it was the sight of met husband-to-be Lester Roberts. by the French since 1919; the stock, you were removed.” Marianne and Lester’s wedding day citizens being burnt to death covered The couple married and moved to Rhinelanders were happy with From 11 until 15, Marianne was in flaming phosphorous, which still Sheffield, and had two sons. their hosts. forced to attend the Academy in haunts me.” From 13-15 March 1945, town, controlled by Fascists. She said: Marianne said: “We had 47 years of 3,900 tons of high explosives were wonderful marriage.” “Here, you daren’t speak out; I was used, killing 3,900 people. Brutal Regime threatened with a correction camp Now 88, Marianne decided to move When the British and Americans Hitler seized power in 1933, and more than once.” into Brunswick Gardens. “I am so arrived, many of the SS fled, happy and content here,” she said. ordered that Rhineland be liberated in When Marianne left school she went evading capture, returning with a 1936. The French retreated and a new to work in a nursery. All the girls “The members of staff are wonderful. vengeance to hunt down informers. Wherever I have been in England, the order was quickly established. Friends were dressed in black uniforms with “What they did was unimaginably and neighbours became divided as a white apron. Marianne’s mother people have always made me feel brutal,” said Marianne. “It was the welcome and at home. I thank you.” loyalties manifested openly. The was a Master Tailoress with her own only time I became deeply scared convent school in the village was re- business. She had three much younger for my own life.” classed as a nursery for childcare, girls children and Marianne was able to Photos from top tutored on being good housewives take them to the nursery. Marianne (far right of group) in the nursery and trained as nurses. Marianne at school Do you have a Meet Cleaver story you would like to share? extralife Contact me on 02476 506011 or email [email protected] 26 People in Pictures

Bernice Marshall, who is due to move to Bournville Gardens when it opens later this year, visited the show apartments and Village site recently.

The team at Hagley Road Village, including 90 year old Tony Carr, rowed the distance from Dover to Calais in the Village centre in Minister of State for Housing and people in pictures just under three hours, raising Planning Brandon Lewis MP visited funds for the British Heart Foundation Lark Hill Village recently and met Pauline Devlyn, Housekeeper at Ryfields Village, took 94-year-old resident Phyllis Hannant to Old Trafford to enjoy her first ever football match! Phyllis in the process! resident Charles Dickens (left). has been a lifelong supporter of Manchester United, and Pauline wanted to treat her to a day she’d never forget. The special day was topped by a group of schoolchildren who noticed Phyllis and, after finding out it was her first match, all clubbed together to buy her a commemorative programme!

One of Northampton Saints’ star rugby players, Samu Manoa, visited Duston Jacky Thomas from The Rose Garden Charity Shop to sign autographs – shared this picture of herself at Happy 90th birthday to Edie Skeldon from School Court! Around 20 and gave volunteer Dee Grace a lift! home as a child. Jacky grew up in of her relatives attended her party - including one from India - and St Crispin Village held their Hughenden, High Wycombe, on the they were joined by other residents. “I certainly enjoyed it and I’m land where ExtraCare is due to open annual Well-being Panto! a Village in 2017. sure everyone else did,” says Edie. extralife 28 People in Pictures

The Brunswick Gardens Drama Group Panto this year was destined not to go ahead – originally scheduled for December, it had to be postponed when some cast members came down with flu. Village Activity Facilitator Suzanne Simons said: “We then rearranged, and all was going to plan until two hours before the performance when one Happy third birthday to of the leading actors fell ill. The good news was they found a replacement. The bad news was it was me! I had less than two hours to go before the Shenley Wood Village! curtain went up on 150 people and didn’t have a Residents, volunteers and staff at Lovat Fields Village held a farewell party for clue what I had to say. Nevertheless we pulled it Receptionist Teresa Tymofijiw. off and we all had a good laugh.”

Want more ExtraCare pictures? Visit our Flickr page at The drama group at www.flickr.com/photos/extracare St Oswald’s Village put on a Red Riding Hood pantomime recently.

Muriel Brookes, Bert Finch, Pauline Bagley and St Crispin Village resident Peter Mawby challenged Activities Co-ordinator PJ Spilsbury from Seagrave Village Manager Sara Reading and Village Activity Court took part in a Healthy Heart Day at the Facilitator Elaine Henley to a winter ice bucket Scheme. PJ said: “What a great day we had! We challenge to raise money for the Gardening Group. started the day with a healthy mind word game, June Paramore, Kath Barnes, Kath Morgan-Cresswell Residents donated money to encourage the two to go followed by lunch and then it was an afternoon full and Maureen Gunson took part in Brunswick Gardens through with it. Peter then, as a thank you, agreed to of fun and games – not forgetting the more serious Village’s annual Pancake Race on Shrove Tuesday. have his legs waxed! things like blood pressure and weigh-ins!” Kath Morgan-Cresswell won the race. Bushfield Court have recently had a new minibus! extralife 30 People in Pictures

Volunteers and residents from Lovat Fields Village have raised over £1,000 for charity! The “Lovat Leanies” and a group of well-being volunteers held a Saturday coffee morning and raised a total of £1,014. The total was split equally between the Milton Keynes Diabetes UK Group Students from Sir Christopher Hatton School and the Medical Detection Dogs visit Rosewood Court every Tuesday as part charity. Village Well-being Advisor of their Community Enrichment Programme. Margaret Mason said: “The sum Activity Co-ordinator Rosemary Jones says: raised will be charity matched “They are such lovely girls and our residents by Santander, giving a total of really enjoy their company and the time they £1,014 to each charity.” spend at Rosewood. We would just like to thank them for their involvement with us!” Edward Furness and Olive Quinn from New Oscott Village with ExtraCare’s Chief Executive, Nick Abbey, at the One of the most popular and first event to celebrate the Longbridge colourful activities at Verona Court Village. Edward and Olive, along with are the flower arranging sessions. other Birmingham ExtraCare residents, The sessions take place every two spoke about their experiences living in weeks and on special occasions, such a retirement village. as Mothering Sunday. Dawn Ashlee and Christine Moore from Blooms to Bloomers run the sessions. Activities Co-ordinator Sophie Petrovic explains that attendees use the arrangements in their own apartments or for gifts for relatives and friends. ‘‘We usually have eight to twelve residents taking part in the sessions and it’s obvious they all enjoy themselves,’’ she says.

Willowbrook had a cocktail bar set up in the lounge for a cocktails and canapés party!

Residents at Princethorpe Court hold a weekly knit and natter group to make small blankets. Activity Co-ordinator Sandie Ball said: “We had an excess of blankets so the decision was taken by the residents to donate some to the Shenley Wood Village residents posed for a calendar last Salvation Army. After I contacted the Salvation year, and in March found themselves the centre of plenty Army Lifehouse in Harnell Lane, Frances the of media attention when it was featured on local, national Manager was delighted to accept some blankets. and international news! Pictures from the Hollywood- A couple of residents came to the Lifehouse to themed calendar were shown in the Daily Mail, The Sun, meet some of the service users and hand over The Telegraph, The Mirror and even NBC’s Today show the blankets. Craig, one of the service users, was in America. Residents and staff were interviewed for ITV so thrilled with his blanket he gave us two model Anglia and Five News. aeroplanes he had made as a thank you.” extralife 32

Trustees

Meet your Ruth Hyndman Ruth was born and brought up in Rotherham, South Yorkshire, and after completing her first degree, Trustees studied for a post-graduate business qualification. Ruth’s early career was as an industrial relations specialist working in ExtraCare’s Board of 12 Trustees are experienced advisors in a number of roles in engineering, local government and publishing. housing, health, care, business and finance who give their time She then joined the retail group Kingfisher PLC, in order to move into and expertise voluntarily. This year, we’ve introduced nine of the a more generalist HR role. During her seventeen years with Kingfisher, twelve - in this final feature, we meet Martin, Ruth and Paul. she was appointed to a number of different executive director roles and at various times was the director responsible for distribution, supply chain and IT, as well as human resources within a number of different Kingfisher operating companies. Ruth’s last role was as Organisation Development Director for Superdrug PLC, the health Martin Shreeve and beauty retailer. Martin is Chair of ExtraCare’s Board of Trustees. He has Since leaving Kingfisher in 2002, she has undertaken a number of consultancy and interim Human Resource Director assignments, been a trustee for almost six years, but has been involved including working at Harrods, the Knightsbridge store, and for an with the Charity for over 20 years. animal welfare charity. He graduated from the London School of Ruth and her partner live in the Slad Valley near Stroud in Economics in 1964. He was instrumental Gloucestershire, in a listed old mill that they are doing up. Its large in developing the first local authority garden keeps them busy. They are keen walkers and lovers of wildlife, and are members of the Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust and the RSPB. In programme of very sheltered housing as the summer they regularly attend classic sports car hill climbs and race an alternative to residential care. events as Ruth’s partner is a member of the Vintage Sports Car Club. In 1985 Martin was appointed Director of Social Services for Wolverhampton where he actively promoted a policy of replacing residential care with extra Paul Jennings care housing. As an active member of Paul is Chief Executive of Gloucestershire Care the Association of Directors of Social Services NHS Trust, an integrated provider of Services, Martin was the first Chairman community health services for the people of of the ADSS for the Elderly People Gloucestershire and social care for adults. Committee, a position he held for 10 years. Paul has worked in, or with, the NHS in a variety of roles since 1978, including over fifteen as a Chief Officer and Chief In 1998, he became the first Executive. Most of Paul’s work has been in the West Midlands Programme Director of The Better including successively of three Primary Care Trusts and a Government for Older People Mental Health Foundation Trust. Programme (BGOP) and in January His professional interests and skills have been in developing 2000 was awarded the OBE for partnerships and integrated services and clinical networks and services to older people. he has recently acquired qualifications in organisational and personal development. He has led a number of significant pieces Martin has nine grandchildren, and of work to address issues of health inequality, particularly for his hobbies include jazz, cycling, older people and newborn infants and was made a Fellow of the the ballet, theatre and the plastic arts. He chairs a small charity in Faculty of Public Health, by distinction, in 2012. Wolverhampton seeking to develop a wider audience for Jazz and Paul chairs a Community Interest Company which focuses on Contemporary music. He is also a keen birdwatcher and walker, and addressing health issues for people from Black and Minority is keen on travel. Communities and Migrants and is a Patron of two charities in South India. Paul is a football fan at Walsall FC. extralife 34 Valued Volunteers

Emily Haddon started visiting Berryhill Village The as part of her Health and Social Care course at college. She originally helped the Activities Emily’s Team, moved to shadowing the support staff, Emerging Picture story and now works as a member of the Care Team. She explains: “I had to do 100 hours of voluntary work. I enjoyed it that At ExtraCare, we rely on thousands Here are the top reasons much that I asked if I could get a job – there weren’t any, of valued volunteers within our why people volunteer, but they let me support the Care Team. I always worked Schemes, Villages and Charity according to a recent survey: with someone, but I was getting a feel for it. Shops. Stephen Acklam, ExtraCare’s “Then in July I asked again if there were any jobs going, Organisation and Management and they put me on the relief staff. And now I’m on the I get satisfaction from permanent staff team! Development Manager, updates seeing the results us on the emerging picture on “I still love it – it’s like a second home! I love doing care. I really enjoy it You get to spend time with so many residents and hear volunteering… their life stories. It gives me a sense of “I’ve always enjoyed it. When I was doing my volunteer Every month, we monitor the number can say that approximately 70% of personal achievement hours, I spent every day of the half-term holiday there. I of active volunteers we have. our volunteers are female and around thought why should I just sit at home when I could be there? 30% are male. We are now thinking Currently we have 2,974 fabulous Meet people and of ways to encourage more males to “If you’d told me before that I’d be working here now, I volunteers. 68.3% support our volunteer. make friends wouldn’t have believed it. I wanted to get into nursing, but Schemes and Villages and 31.7% never would have thought I’d be where I am now!” support our Charity Shops. ExtraCare encourages residents to It broadens my volunteer and the number of resident Over the last year, the number of volunteers has grown by 4.4% in the experience of life volunteers supporting locations Lesley Garratt originally volunteered to help last nine months. has grown by 8.2%, thanks to the It gives me more ExtraCare’s Shops Team in Head Office. She now hard work of the activity staff who A working group has been established confidence works in the Finance Team. have been developing recruitment, to help identify what information we She explains: Lesley’s retention and recognition plans. want to know about our volunteers to It gives me the chance help us plan for the future. Looking at the details helps us plan to learn new skills “I saw a notice in the chemists asking for admin volunteers story ahead and think about the things we In May 2014, we launched a for the Shops Team. I’d been unemployed for a while, and could do more of. Volunteering strategy and policy and It improves my had been doing some volunteering for another charity, but it we are in the process of reviewing wasn’t very busy. ExtraCare sounded right up my street. A year ago we were not aware of the 19.18% its impact28.86% with the Activities Team, physical health gender of nearly half our volunteers, “I phoned Norma, the Shops Administrator, on the Residents’ Forum 51.96%and volunteers. so we have spent time checking and Wednesday, came for a chat on the Thursday, and started on We hope this will help us provide a It gives me the chance collecting data. Now that figure has the Friday! I was so embarrassed, because I’d fallen over and positive and rewarding experience to to improve my dropped to less than a third. We are had a massive black eye – I thought she was going to think all who volunteer. now more confident in our data and employment prospects I’d been in a fight! It makes me feel “I came in three days a week. I used to do the post, which was quite tricky – I learnt all of the shops very well! less stressed Gender of volunteers Who are our volunteers? “Then one day Norma came to tell me that there was a Male: 19.18% External volunteers: 45.24% job going in Finance, and she’d been asked if any volunteers Female: 51.96% Resident volunteers: 45.94% would be interested. I brought my CV in and was asked to Unknown: 28.86% Staff volunteers: 8.82% If you would like to find out an interview. more about the opportunities “When they offered me the job, I started crying. I never to volunteer for ExtraCare or expected to get it, and it really was my dream to work here. 19.18% 8.82% 28.86% would like to share your story, Everyone is so lovely. 45.94% 45.24% 51.96% please contact Chrissie Morris “Volunteering here got me into the rhythm of work again. or Stephen Acklam on It did wonders for my confidence.” 02476 506011. extralife 36

8.82% 45.94% 45.24% Your Letters

Rose Garden Handbell Ringers

Star Letter receives £25 voucher A trip on the Pen to Paper Orient Express Dear Extralife, My name is Annetta Lyon and A selection of your letters... I moved into Reeve Court in 2011. I lost my husband in 2009 to vascular dementia, his UK Snooker name was William Keith Lyon. Dear Extralife, He always wanted to go on the Orient Express train together but Championships The Well-being Nurse, back in 2009, had heard that Ted Parnell had a set of unfortunately we never got the handbells and suggested we had a meeting with interested residents, because it chance, so in 2011 after moving at the Barbican would be useful for hands, eyes, ears and brain co-ordination. A small group of into Reeve Court I saw that they us met – we started off ringing by numbers, Ted having worked out tunes with Centre, York had a tradition trip on sale that 12 bells. was going on the Orient Express, Dear Extralife, We had a weekly practice with two bells each. Dr. Lily Donovan brought her I decided to book as it was always Ken Doherty kindly invited me together group down to entertain folks, and bringing Belleplates for us to “ring and sing”. William’s dream. She offered to come to help us for a couple of weeks – but she is still with us with three players from our snooker group It was a fantastic day and the five years later! to visit the UK Snooker championships. The whole experience was a very three were Stan Jones, Brian Clifton and Our first trip to entertain was to Gloucester to ring for the prospective good day out. The staff on the Alan Kingston. residents of St Oswald’s Village. We had two sessions there. Next we were Orient Express were very good We were met at York by Ken and he gave invited to Oaklands Nursing Home in Hereford, and carols at Tesco in aid of and I shared the day with Irene us a tour behind the scenes of the television MS. We also took part in two talent competitions at Beacon Park in Lichfield – Smith, another resident, and Sue set up and the players’ world. We actually and have cups each! Also a plaque. from the activities team at Reeve went into the main arena, the commentary We rang by invitation for the Friends of Hereford Cathedral, in the Cloisters on Court. boxes, the interview area used by Hazel a very windy evening – and had to borrow clothes pegs from the Dean to keep Best wishes, Irvine, and the Players lounge. We had our lunch in the latter. During this our pages in place! Annetta Lyon tour Ken introduced us to John Higgins and Willie Thorne. Whilst we were having lunch we met John Parrott, Our furthest journey took us to Brunel Court near Wolverhampton – we Reeve Court Village Stuart Bingham and Terry Griffiths. All of the people were very approachable and we were very impressed. received a great welcome. We also visited nursing homes and day centres, took Before the matches started, Rob Fowler, the MC, gave a warm up chat to the audience during which he was suddenly part in three concerts in the Fred Bulmer Hall. Please send us your letters interrupted by a man singing and some of the audience stood and revealed their Rock Choir shirts, this was very In 2012 our Conductor changed us to ringing by Staff Notation which, after the impressive. Rob continued his warm up by giving a greeting to St Crispin snooker group, naming myself with a particular (around 150 words*) on course, we found much easier. welcome. He did this at the request of Ken Doherty. This, of course, was the ‘icing on the cake’. issues local and global! We get invitations to Nursing Homes and Day Centres, and have been to the We then watched the matches between Stuart Bingham and Ricky Walden (Stuart won) and John Higgins and Send your letters to Day Hospice at St Michaels, Bartestree. Now we have a concert with the Rose Anthony McGill (Anthony won). [email protected] Garden Choir, also ringing at the annual carol service at The Rose Garden. or Extralife, The ExtraCare After the finish of the matches we should have met up with Ken but unfortunately somehow we missed him, our We have eight ringers now, and have great comradeship. We would like to say Charitable Trust, 7 Harry transport was waiting and we had to leave. Thanks from all of us go to Ken for making this possible and for such a “Thank you” to Lily Donovan for her help and encouragement in getting us Weston Road, Binley Business awesome experience. Our thanks to all concerned with this visit are also extended. where we are now! Park, Binley, Coventry, CV3 2SN Best wishes, Best wishes, *Please note: Occasionally we may Laurie Capell, St Crispin Village Edna Parnell, The Rose Garden have to edit letters. extralife 38 Sort It!

We asked Oliver Speight to judge the poster entries – he has worked This time, Elaine Henley, who was then Village Activity Facilitator with several ExtraCare Villages and The lifecycle of at St Crispin Retirement Village, answers the question… Schemes through Speight of the Art, the a donation Sort It! foundation that he set up in memory of his son, Mark. Do you know what How can we support ExtraCare’s happens when you Sort It! is a regular Charity Shops? donate an item? feature where we pick up on an issue If you When ExtraCare was accredited donate Funds from our Shops that rattles readers. by Investors in People, one of are used to help the the suggestions received in the the item report was that we should look in a more vulnerable at our approach to Corporate Scheme people within our Social Responsibility (CSR) and or Village, volunteers pick Schemes and Villages, develop a strategy for it. We by supporting the set up a CSR group, and realised it up and take it to the that we could improve on our local Charity Shop. Enriched Opportunities community involvement and Programme® (for people benefit the environment. Lots of ExtraCare staff got involved: The bags are living with dementia), Rebecca Devaney and Linda Golding We particularly wanted to (pictured) from the Procurement Team unloaded care services, and health encourage recycling through sourced prizes, Quality Administrator and donations and well-being projects. donations to the Charity Shops – Graham Aitken found the judge for us, are sorted at Funds also support our people donate to particular shops and Shops Managing Director Alison the shop. research programme because they support the charities, such as the Whittingham got us the charity bags which seeks to improve British Heart Foundation or Cancer Research. and helped with the judging. But a lot of people don’t know much about and develop our care ExtraCare’s Charity Shops, or where the services. money goes, and we need to Items are start by educating our local communities. then put out So please donate to So I came up with the idea of Chuck it for sale… your local shop! Talk to to Charity (Cit2C). staff at your Village or St Crispin is opposite St Luke’s Primary School, Scheme or call the Shops and I went to talk to the children. The children will tell you what help is needed if there’s been Team on 02476 506011 a hurricane or a disaster overseas, but they to find out more. didn’t know much about charities closer to home. I told them about ExtraCare, and asked what they thought an older person was like. Thanks to the team They came back with hilarious words like Then we presented the prizes to at the Duston Charity hairy, bent, frail and small! the children! The project as a whole Shop for their help with taught them about ExtraCare and I asked Maureen Caldecourt, Margaret Lowe, … where customers this project, particularly Barbara Daykin and Madge Smith from really challenged the children’s can buy them! our Zumba class to visit the school – perceptions, which is what we Manager Haley McCulloch! they shuffled into the hall, and then need to do. started doing a Zumba dance! The children were really impressed. Do you have a Email: [email protected] Phone: 02476 506011 Because children love competitions, we problem that needs Or write to The Extralife Team, The ExtraCare Charitable thought that was a good way to get sorting? If you have Trust, 7 Harry Weston Road, Binley Business Park, Binley, through to them. We asked them to draw Coventry, CV3 2SN a poster advertising the Charity Shops, another issue that and to bring their donations in. We gave needs sorting out, Ideas for new topics are always welcome – please clearly define the issue, them all a charity bag, and they came back avoid personal comments and ensure your local problem is one that has or is with posters and filled bags! Contact Sort It! likely to affect residents across the Charity. extralife 40 Performance

All premises and equipment used must be clean, secure, suitable and used properly. Complaints must be appropriately investigated and appropriate action taken in response. Systems and processes must be established to ensure compliance with the fundamental standards. CQC’s Sufficient numbers of suitably qualified, competent, skilled and experienced staff must be deployed. fundamental standards Persons employed must be of good character, have the necessary qualifications, skills and experience, and be able to perform the work for which they are employed. What is CQC? Registered persons must be open and transparent with service users about As a care provider, ExtraCare is regulated by the Care Quality Commission the care and treatment (duty of candour). (CQC). CQC makes sure that care services in England provide people with safe, effective and high-quality care – they do this by setting quality standards, The regulations also now cover: carrying out inspections and taking appropriate action if care services are failing Duty of candour, which requires services to be open and transparent with to meet the standards. residents about their care and treatment. CQC visits ExtraCare’s Villages and Schemes to carry out regular inspections of A fit and proper person requirement. This will mean that all directors and Each issue, Extralife care services. These may be responsive inspections, which happen in relation to trustees appointed must meet the new fit and proper person test. examines an aspect of the identified concerns, or routine inspections, which are planned, and can be Charity’s performance. Here, unannounced, and could occur at any time. These two new regulations will help ensure that providers have robust systems Julie Wakefield, ExtraCare’s in place to be open and honest when things go wrong, and also ensure that directors and trustees can be held to account when care fails people. Performance and Standards The new fundamental standards Officer, explains the If there has been a breach of requirement where a person or people have been CQC has recently updated its framework, principles and operating model. harmed, CQC now has the power to bring a prosecution straight away. new CQC fundamental Standards are now more focused, in line with recommendations from the standards, and what they Francis Report into care at the Mid-Staffordshire NHS Foundation Trust. CQC ratings mean for ExtraCare… The new fundamental standards will replace CQC’s former system of Care services can be rated Inadequate, Requires Improvement, Good or monitoring 28 regulations and 16 different “outcomes”. Outstanding. Sometimes, CQC will have inspected but will not be able to award There will be five Key Lines of Enquiry, which CQC will ask of all services: a rating. This could be because the service is new, or because CQC have not got enough evidence. The service will then be described as “inspected but not rated”. 1. Is the service safe? Are people protected from abuse and avoidable harm? The five key questions have equal weighting and contribute equally to the 2. Is the service effective? Do people’s care, treatment and support achieve overall location rating. Ratings are based on a combination of the inspection, good outcomes and promote a good quality of life? comments from residents, family members and care staff, information from the 3. Is the service caring? Do staff involve and treat people with compassion, care provider, and information from Social Services. kindness, dignity and respect? 4. Is the service responsive? Are services organised so they meet people’s needs? What does this mean for ExtraCare? 5. Is the service well-led? Do the leadership, management and governance of the organisation assure the delivery of high-quality person-centred care? All locations will now have to complete a Provider Information Return – this Are learning and innovation supported? Is there an open and fair culture? requires all care providers to give information in response to the five key questions. It’s an electronic form that must be completed and returned online within 28 days, or the provider will only and automatically receive a rating of These enquiries allow CQC to monitor whether a provider is fulfilling the Requires Improvement under the question “Is the service well-led?” fundamental standards, which are: CQC will now start inspecting under this new framework, so Managers, Heads Care and treatment must be appropriate and reflect service users’ of Care, Care Managers and Team Leader Coaches have all received training on needs and preferences. these new standards to help them through inspections and continue to provide Service users must be treated with dignity and respect. the best care services possible. Care and treatment must only be provided with consent. Care and treatment must only be provided in a safe way. If you would like to view your Scheme or Village’s CQC report, that information Service users must be protected from abuse and improper treatment. can be found on your location’s webpage at www.extracare.org.uk. Alternatively, you can ask your Scheme or Village Manager for more information. Service users’ nutritional and hydration needs must be met. For more information about CQC, visit www.cqc.org.uk extralife 42 Solving Complaints Essential Advice

Solving Complaints Needing There were 48 complaints made between November and January. JKL Of these, two were referred to one of our housing partners to address as the matter was within their control. These graphs show the breakdown of complaints in this period. If, following How complaints investigation, the issues raised in a complaint are found to have are used been true, the complaint will be upheld. Information relating to extra funds? complaints is used only Does the complaint relate to a resident a) to manage your 1. Who can apply? 57%57% 43%43% 57% 43% receiving care? complaint Any resident who has a full purchase or shared ownership home at Yes...... 43% Sunley Court, Rosewood Court, Hagley Road Village, Lark Hill Village, b) to review and improve Lovat Fields Village, New Oscott Village, Pannel Croft Village or 57% 43% No...... 57% 57% 43% our services Shenley Wood Village. c) to report to 2. How much can I apply for? 2% 2% What is the status of The maximum amount is £10,000. 2%2%2%2% regulatory authorities the complainant? 3. Are there fees involved? 38% 58% (including the sharing 38%38% 58%58% ExtraCare resident...... 58% There are legal fees which amount to £600. This can be added to the 2% 2% Relative or friend ...... 38% of your personal Housing Services Manager amount you apply for. You will also need to meet any additional costs 2% 2% ExtraCare staff member ...... 2% information in certain Richard Keeley shares an incurred through your own solicitor. 38% 58% Other ...... 2% 38% 58% circumstances) update on ExtraCare’s Capital 4. How does the scheme work? Fund scheme… For example, say you own a 100% full purchase apartment, for which you paid £150,000. You want to free up the maximum amount, £10,000. What is the Last year, we trialled ExtraCare’s complaint about? Your feedback is Capital Fund, available to leaseholders This is how it works: 2% 27% 13%13% Care ...... 13% important to us because needing access to additional funds, 2%2% 27%27% 13% £150,000 (the amount you paid for your apartment) 30%30% Staff ...... 30% our aim is to provide and we were able to help 10 residents. 6% 30% Minus £10,000 (the amount you have applied for) 6%6% 8% 10% 8%8% 10%10% Environment ...... 4% the best quality service I am therefore pleased to announce Minus £600 (legal fees) that we are making the Capital Fund 27% 13% Maintenance ...... 10% 2% 4% possible. Leaves £139,400 (the amount you now own) 2% 27% 13% 30% 4%4% Anti-social behaviour ...... 8% available again this year. 6% 8% 10% 30% Catering ...... 6% So if you have a complaint, You now own £139,400 of the £150,000 you originally paid, or a 92.9% 6% 8% 10% This is available if you are a full Multiple ...... 2% we’ll take it seriously and purchase or shared owner of a share. You will need to pay rent on the remaining 7.1% that you no 4% Other ...... 27% longer own. (These figures are examples only.) 4% respond appropriately. If location that is leased from ExtraCare; 13%13% 10%10% 13% we’ve done something you it is not available if you lease from We will provide a detailed quotation of the weekly rental sum for you to 10% 77%77% 77% like, please tell us. one of our housing partners. If you are consider before you enter into any agreement. interested in finding out whether this Who was the 5. Will I still need to pay the 1% Sinking Fund? 13% complaint against? If you’re an ExtraCare is an option, we can arrange for one of 10% 13% Yes, this will apply to the original share you purchased. Using the 10% 77% our Welfare Benefits Advisors to talk 77% ExtraCare ...... 77% resident or relative, please example above, you would pay 1% of £150,000. to you to assess the impact it may Other residents ...... 10% contact your local Scheme have on your benefit entitlement. 6. What else do I need to do? Other ...... 13% or Village Manager by We also advise you to seek your You will need a benefits check with one of our Welfare Benefits Advisors 17% 17%17% 15% 36%36% phone, email or letter in own independent financial advice to make sure you understand the implications and any impact your 15%15% 36% 32% application might have on your entitlement (if any) to benefits. 32%32% the first instance. before proceeding. 17% Was the complaint upheld? Copies of our Tell Us Last year, some of those benefiting 7. Am I guaranteed to get this? 15% 17% 36% from the fund purchased mobility ExtraCare has a limited fund for this and there is a cap of £100,000 in 36% Yes ...... 36% How We’re Doing forms 15% 32% aids, travelled abroad to see family, each financial year across the Charity. Priority will be given to those 32% No ...... 32% are available in all of our or replaced their car. with care needs, or those in hardship or special circumstances. In part ...... 15% Schemes and Villages and Case still on-going ...... 17% If you have any queries then please 8. How do I apply? on our website. contact Richard on 02476 506011 Contact your manager for a Capital Fund application form, or Richard or [email protected] Keeley on 02476 506011 or [email protected] extralife 44 Residents’ Forum

Resident Forum elections At the time of writing, Resident Forum elections have just been completed. Thank you to all residents who nominated themselves to be on the Forum. Thank you also to all those who took the time to vote for a Forum representative. The Forum exists to represent the views of all residents, to give residents a voice in how ExtraCare delivers and improve services. The Forum was set up with the intention of having half of its representatives being those who are in receipt of care. However, in some locations we do not have a representative who is in receipt of care. In these locations we have stated that those in receipt of care would have priority in the Resident Forum elections. In the last edition of Extralife, I wrote that I would give an update on the Customer Scrutiny Group’s review into how ExtraCare achieves balanced At the next Forum we will review how successful the recent elections have been communities. The Customer Scrutiny Group presented their findings to the in ensuring appropriate representation across our locations. Forum meetings in December. This was a thorough report, and my thanks to the Group for their hard work in putting this together. If you would like to see a copy of the full report, please contact your location Manager. Joint Resident Forum Meeting Each year we have a joint Village and Scheme Forum in March. At this meeting Balanced Communities – Main Recommendations we will welcome new representatives onto the Forum. The Customer Scrutiny Group looked at seven ExtraCare locations, and We are always looking for ideas and suggestions from residents for the Forum to interviewed the location managers as well as surveying the residents in those discuss, that relate to all locations. Please do contact your Forum representative The last Forum meetings locations. The Group is grateful to all those residents who completed the if you wish for them to raise an issue on your behalf. Minutes of the Forums are were held in December survey and to the Managers for their time. issued to your Forum representative, as well as your location Manager. 2014. ExtraCare’s The Group found that ExtraCare is working hard to achieve balanced You can get further information about meetings from your Scheme or Housing Services Manager, communities. They found examples of good practice, such as Managers Village Manager or Residents’ Association representative. having the ability to ensure properties were let in a way to preserve a If you would like further information about the work of the Customer Richard Keeley, reports... balanced community. Scrutiny Group or Residents’ Forum contact Richard Keeley They also found that ExtraCare could do more to communicate in a clearer, on 02476 507915 or [email protected] more consistent way to residents about how balanced communities are being monitored and maintained. Within our Villages in particular, the Group found that residents would benefit from clear, regular information in relation to the profile of the community. We are in the process of making arrangements for this to be done through the location Managers.

Volunteering Update Stephen Acklam, ExtraCare’s Organisation and Management Development Manager, explained to the Forum that ExtraCare were looking to assess the impact that the Volunteering Policy had had, now that the Policy had been in place for nearly a year. Stephen said that he wanted to seek the views of the Forum as to how best to carry out this review. He asked members for their views on what needed to be reviewed, who should be consulted and how best to consult with people. Forum members were given time to discuss this and fed back to Stephen. These views have helped shape the review, which was carried out over January and February 2015. The results of this review will be fed back to the next Forum meeting. The outcome of this review will be in the next edition.

extralife 46 The Critics Wordswork

The Critics

Thank you to Dolly McHale, A big Doris Tame, Marjorie Cooper, Any time is biscuit time... Sheila Redmond, Jean Nicholls, thank you! Jean Reade and May Phillips for … and with St Patrick’s Day on the horizon, a selection of traditional Jacob’s their participation in what proved Irish biscuits were put to the taste test! Judge and jury were seven lovely to be a very enjoyable debate. Barbara Button, ladies from Broadway Gardens. who lives at The Jacob’s Biscuit brand was launched in Waterford, Ireland, in 1851 and Princethorpe quickly established itself as the No.1 brand in Ireland and is now firmly a part of the fabric of Irish society. Court, wrote this poem for the Joan Grant from Rosewood Court also Under scrutiny were four family On tasting the ‘Chocolate Mikado’ Scheme’s Chefs decided to thank someone with a poem: favourites: Chocolate Kimberley, Jean Nicholls enthused: “this is at the end of last Sue, one of Rosewood’s dedicated £1.30, Coconut Creams, £1.30, something to die for!” Although it year to show Chocolate Mikado, £1.50 and was not her favourite biscuit, she volunteers. Activity Co-ordinator Rosemary Kimberley, £1.30. awarded it a 9. Sheila Redmond also her appreciation Jones says that residents at the Scheme Sheila Redmond gives a thumbs thought it had a ‘good rich flavour for all of their We opened the debate with up for ‘Chocolate Kimberley’ really appreciate the volunteers who come combination’. Jean was not concerned ‘Chocolate Kimberley’ and the general hard work. in to help out. by the calorific content of the consensus was that it was not too biscuits, saying: “I am on my healthy sweet and had a lovely texture. “It is Thought I’d write a blog for you walking tomorrow and will walk it off, very nice if you like chocolate,” said I thought I’d write a poem and then enjoy a nice piece of cake.” As a Thank You for all you do May Phillips scoring it 8/10. on this little card, Last but not least was ‘Kimberley’, You come to Rosewood every week Next to be debated were the and this legendary biscuit of the To thank the chefs because ‘Coconut Creams.’ Many thought Rain, hail, snow and sleet Emerald Isle hit the mark with many there was too much coconut and this of the ladies. Marjorie Cooper and they work so very hard, Nothing stops you visiting us could potentially be a problem. “If you Dolly McHale scored it 9/10 and have false teeth the coconut will get May Phillips gives a thumbs To give us all variety To care, make tea, wash up, no fuss 10/10 respectively saying: “It’s a very under them,” laughed Jean Reade but down for ‘Coconut Creams’ nice biscuit.” in everything they do, still scored it 7/10. With willing step and cheery smile Doris Tame, however, confided that, So many different dinners You have quite a walk, at least a mile not having a sweet tooth, they were And so to the results… and lots of puds too. JOINT all a little too sweet for her, but still You preside with grace over jug and pot st enjoyed the session with the ‘Kimberley takes So many thanks to you again Pouring tea, sugar, no, mind it’s hot 1 accompaniment of a the biscuit!’ nice cup nice cup of tea. Come on and take a bow! We welcome your ministrations deft Joint 1st were the Chocolate Another year beginning When you cannot come, we’re quite bereft. Kimberley (the rarer and slightly frowned upon by the purists, with lovely food, wow. We all look forward to easy chat chocolate variety) and Kimberley (original) both scored 61/70. Tales of the boys, about this and that Princethorpe Court’s Activity Co-ordinator, You’re always busy with needles and pins 3rd place scoring 59/70 Sandie Ball, said: Chocolate Mikado. “I thought it would be lovely to show this Yet you find time to fit us in as a reminder to all the chefs what a great Thank you Sue for all you do 4th place with a score of job you are all doing all year round. Thanks 50/70 Coconut Creams. Barbara, what a lovely gesture!” We at Rosewood are blessed to have you! extralife 48 Gardening

Geraniums in my greenhouse, to be planted out in the summer – they’re drought tolerant Howard’s Gardening top tips with Howard Drury

Pay a little more and These plants have buy better brands of automatic watering so composts and fertilisers there aren’t too many Planning ahead containers to look after ` ` ` Time your purchases, don’t order or buy With spring around the So many websites now offer plants we should be going? More locations seedlings too early corner, I feel like a child in a as well. You have to be very careful, are looking towards more permanent especially when purchasing online. planting schemes. ` ` ` sweetshop. Our garden centres There are some very reputable nurseries Any long-term planting must give a and nurseries will be filling up offering good-sized plants at reasonable good show of colour over as long a Only buy good quality prices, often delivered in excellent rapidly with masses of plants. period as possible. Some plants reward condition. On the other hand, every plants – if you’re not Some are really crafty and us with colour for months and are spring I hear of gardeners who are sure, don’t buy relatively easy to grow, require little St Oswald’s Village place these irresistible plants unhappy with their online purchases. in positions that you can or no staking and suffer no pests or grew their own ` ` ` vegetables last year hardly avoid. Should you be We’re all protected by certain rights diseases. You might want to add some but very often, in spite of getting your seasonal colour in the form of bedding Use fewer, bigger an impulse buyer? Surely it’s money back or an alternative product, plants amongst them. Do make sure shed pollen and cause problems to scented foliage? Many plants in the you’ve lost important growing anything you choose will reward you containers rather than better to plan ahead and only clothes and furniture. garden can provide scent. A little bit of time. Surely it’s better to buy good with colour for weeks on end. I’ve lots of small containers purchase what is really going common garden thyme planted around products from a reputable source in extolled the virtue of begonias in the I’d love to see fruit and vegetables to grow well for you… the base of a garden seat where you sit the first place. So here’s my handy past and they’re brilliant for containers, growing. For me, there’s nothing like ` ` ` and scuffle the foliage with your feet guide on what to buy and how hanging baskets and in borders. runner beans or French beans. Runner can deliver delicious aromas. All you not to get caught out in a garden bean ‘Firestorm’, ‘Snowstorm’ and Work with your I’m also keen to promote single- need is to plan what you want to grow! centre’s sweetshop selection. ‘Moonlight’ are all self-pollinating flowered dahlias. You can grow these colleagues to share any varieties, easy to grow in difficult Over the next few weeks I shall be from seeds, buy tubers or buy plants communal facilities such You need a plan of what you summers and give superb flavour. moving between the regions delivering later that can go directly into the intend to grow and do. my suggestions as part of our Garden as greenhouses garden from mid-May onwards. Like Gardeners around our Schemes and in Bloom competition for 2015. Early Decide what areas you or your many flowers with fewer petals, they’re Villages can make a huge improvement planning is vital and I’m sure you’ll ` ` ` gardening team are going to look easier for bees and other insects to by buying better quality composts be excited to hear about what we are after and what abilities you’ve got get to the nectar and pollen. I’m fully and using better fertilisers. While it’s planning for this coming year. I’m sorry It’s better to grow fewer to plant up and maintain the area in support of the Royal Horticultural nice to see self-watering containers I can’t give more away, but watch this plants further apart in throughout the season – and Society’s campaign to get plants into and hosepipes at every corner, it’s space closely! seed trays and larger pots think about how you can our gardens that are beneficial to our not always practical, so always look make it labour-saving. It’s Single-flowered dahlias bees, but I’m also extremely keen to see carefully for plants that aren’t over- better to buy jumbo plugs attract more insects that they attract other beneficial insects demanding on water requirements. ` ` ` than raise plants from such as pollinators. If your fuchsia becomes even slightly Write to me with your seed, except perhaps in the dry it may never recover, whereas a gardening stories at: Make sure someone is Some of you have been very successful Be very careful using case of large seeds such as geranium can tolerate being on the dry [email protected] on hand to ensure your marigolds, which quickly with lilies in past years. You can fuchsias in baskets side for weeks. Or Howard Drury, 8 tiny treasures grow into – they need a lot of produce big seedlings that purchase lilies that are very fragrant Bagnell Road, Kings Heath, award-winning giants! water and TLC! transplant easily. But are and at the same time are sterile, On the subject of geraniums, why not bedding plants the way lacking the male stamens that can choose those species with attractive Birmingham, B13 OSJ. extralife 50 The History Inspectors

The power of poetry is About the poets being used The Poets as part of an William Wordsworth (1770-1850), innovative along with Samuel Taylor Coleridge, programme helped to launch the Romantic Age at Berryhill, in English literature with the joint run by Amanda after she publication Lyrical Ballads (1798). heard about John Killick, who Wordsworth’s magnum opus is generally runs a programme using poetry through pictures. Residents are considered to be The Prelude, a semi- shown pictures and encouraged autobiographical poem that he revised to describe what they see. and expanded a number of times. It Amanda writes everything down; was posthumously titled and published. the results have been positive. Wordsworth was Britain’s Poet Laureate from 1843 until his death in 1850. She said:

“We get them to John Keats (1795-1821) was one of talk about what the main figures of the second generation of Romantic poets, despite they see if it his work having been in publication triggers memories. for only four years before his death. Olive Murphy Although his poems were not generally Hilda, Myra, Amanda, Minnie and Ivy Often they will well-received by critics during his life, start talking with his reputation grew after his death.

The earliest poetry was recited or sung as a way of remembering each other about history, events and law. Historical recordings lead us to believe the holidays they first poet was Sumerian High Priestess Enheduanna, 2285-2250 BCE. remember, it is Percy Bysshe Shelley (1792-1822) was She is credited with creating the paradigms of poetry, psalms and one of the major Romantic poets, and prayers used throughout the ancient world. Her works were models most encouraging is regarded by some as amongst the finest lyric poets in the English language. of prayer which influenced the prayers and psalms of the Hebrew to see.” A radical in his poetry as well as his Bible and historical hymns of Greece. political and social views, Shelley did Jon Cleaver visited Berryhill Village in front of the school; this gave me cannot. Amanda said: “Keats was a literature. Shelley drowned in a storm in not achieve fame during his lifetime. He and talked with Hilda Swinson, Myra confidence as I was rather timid.” romantic poet, probably more famous the Gulf of Spezia. is perhaps best known for such classic Higginson, Minnie Arnold, Ivy Cliff after he died, aged just 29.” Ivy posed the question: “What did poets Walter de la Mare was born at the end poems as Ozymandias, Ode to the West and Locksmith Amanda Gallacher live on, or did they have other jobs?” Ivy studied Keats at school. Born of the romantic period but had similar Wind and To a Skylark. His other major about poets William Wordsworth, in Stoke-on-Trent, she moved to qualities. Amanda said: “De la Mare is works include long, visionary poems such John Keats, Percy Bysshe Shelley and Wordsworth attended Hawkshead Yorkshire and went to school there. my favourite. He was a story writer as Queen Mab (later reworked as The Walter de la Mare. School, and also worked there as a Because of her dialect, she was called and novelist. Wherever he is talked of, Daemon of the World). teacher. It is still a school and a Of the four, Wordsworth is perhaps the on to read poetry out to the school his English lyric poetry is appreciated.” desk with Wordsworth’s signature best-remembered – what schoolchild assembly. “They listened intently,” she is on show. Myra, schooled in Scotland, quoted Walter John de la Mare (1873-1956) has not heard of Daffodils? Myra said: said. “Maybe not so much the poem as Robbie Burns as her most studied poet. was a poet, short story writer and “I remember Wordsworth at school, Keats was to train as a doctor, but my accent!” mainly because of his daffodil poem. It poetry occupied him intensely. He Olive Murphy, who did not attend the novelist. He is best remembered for The last of the true Romantics was paints such a beautiful scene of colour studied from dictionaries and reference discussion, loves poetry. One of her his works for children and for his poem Shelley. Some critics considered Shelley that has stuck with me.” books and learnt the magic and favourites is Do not stand at my grave The Listeners. He also wrote some irritating and ineffectual, but, considered power of words. A self-taught genius, and weep, by Mary Elizabeth Frye. subtle psychological horror stories, Minnie said: “I love poetry, because like more profoundly, he is one of the he believed knowledge gained by amongst them Seaton’s Aunt and painters create beautiful pictures, poets nearest examples of poet as prophet. Wordsworth defines a poet as “a man imagination was truer than derived write beautiful lyrical words.” She His most famous poem is probably of more soul. A poet is different from Out of the Deep. from argument, and thought poetry studied Walter de la Mare at school. Prometheus Unbound, considered of a other men because he/she has a more captured a peculiar quality of beauty, She said: “We had to read poetry out lyrical quality unsurpassed in modern lively sensibility.” Amen to that. which the painter and sculpture extralife 52 IT Works

We are looking at… Enhancing the IT services for residents Exploring new use of technologies ITworks Publishing a rolling equipment replacement programme Using tablets in apartments for those with care packages? for locations so that they know when equipment is due Support packages which include telecare and other for replacement and upgrade assistive technology? Ensuring we improve the provision of wireless access Using swipe cards or bracelets for bookings/ ExtraCare’s IT Team is hard at work, planning how to Considering how we can overcome digital exclusion and attendance/payments? improve computer facilities across the Charity. address skills, motivation and affordability Checking your statement or paying your bill online? Here, Head of IT Rowland Sandys explains more… Improving access to online services and improve support Reporting a fault or requesting a maintenance visit? and training in the use of IT for independent living Online consultations with staff or external health professionals? New Villages and new services Signing up for activities or volunteering online? Engaging with existing residents and friends to review IT Strategy IT provision at new Villages So how can you get involved? Raising awareness of what residents can get for Write to us at The ExtraCare Charitable Trust, This year, the ExtraCare IT strategy will be updated to cover the period from themselves at a low cost, which will allow them to use 7 Harry Weston Road, Binley Business Park, 2015-2020. technology to maintain and improve their independence Binley, Coventry, CV3 2SN or email This is a crucial time for ExtraCare IT. We will see significant changes with [email protected]. several new Villages opening. Starting with Bournville Gardens, these new Focusing on customer experience and service You can contact us individually or as a Villages will have a significantly enhanced IT infrastructure and will therefore group communication from your place more demand on IT than previous Villages. Ensuring smooth transitions Listening and responding – using satisfaction Residents’ Association. for the upcoming changes will be an important and time-consuming challenge. survey results and customer feedback to prioritise IT service improvements The IT strategy is going through several ExtraCare’s business systems will be transformed in the next few years by new stages of drafting and approval but is Considering how we can make better use of technology systems for centralising customer information, Income Management and a new planned to be finalised by the ExtraCare to allow residents to give us feedback Intranet which can grow. board in June 2015. The strategy will Looking at how we can better support those who are then be updated in 2017 when the More and more services from central and local government are going online – more vulnerable in the digital age ExtraCare business plan is next reviewed. and, in many cases, the ‘online’ option is the ‘only’ option. We need to ensure that our residents have access to these services which means we need to look at equipment and infrastructure and overcome the barriers to digital involvement. In formulating this new IT strategy, I’ve had the opportunity to speak to many people across ExtraCare at various levels. We also want to hear the views of residents and to consider any ideas. I am really pleased to offer you the opportunity to take part in this process because it’s the first time we have consulted so widely and the first time residents have the chance to give their views before the strategy is completed. If you are a current or prospective resident or even a friend of an ExtraCare location then please let us know what IT you think ExtraCare should be providing. Here are some of the areas we are looking at. It contains a few new ideas that have come out of discussion so far and I would be keen to get your feedback.

extralife 54 Fit!

Based within many ExtraCare make the gym a fun environment these new members into enjoying What happens in the Schemes and Villages are and encourage interesting new ways exercising, to ensure we have suitable state-of-the-art gyms and to work out. Ben is also focusing on programmes and manageable targets fitness suites. ExtraCare’s members who use aids to correct which will keep them motivated Fitness Instructors can offer their posture, working on upper body and keep them enjoying the gym. If strength including their arms and backs people have fun working out, they advice on exercise and work to counteract the pressure that is put will continue to use our facilities and with you to develop your own on the body on a day-to-day basis. everybody wins. We continue to have them as valued members, and, most individual fitness programmes. Volunteers are a key aspect of any importantly, they are continuing their gym? gym, and every volunteer is aware healthy lifestyle!” of each member and any ailments they may have. This will help them to understand what equipment and what exercise members should be doing. They will be able to ‘flag up’ any issues, based on their training. There are celebrations of birthdays and targets hit, keeping morale at an The team are keen to ensure that the all-time high. gym is a fun environment for both residents and external members. The gym hosts plenty of fitness Ben has been working with the local classes, particularly targeting community, including the Stroke abdominal strength, healthy hearts Society where he promotes the gym’s and circuit classes. services and how important exercise Ben has also introduced a table tennis is for general well-being. class, and, with the support of the So what are Ben’s plans for the Knitting Group, is beginning a table coming months? He says: “To support tennis league – they are hoping to

Advice from the NHS The NHS suggests that all adults, including those over 65, should do at least 150 minutes (two and a half hours) of moderate-intensity aerobic activity every week. That might include walking, playing We spoke to the team at Ryfields Village to find out what’s doubles tennis or line-dancing. happening in their gym… You should also try and do muscle-strengthening activities a couple of times a week. This may In recent years, Ryfields gym role being vacant came, he jumped at include carrying your shopping, digging while membership was on a downward the chance to reapply and residents slope with the number of active are ecstatic to see him back. gardening or taking a yoga class. If you’re worried members hitting an all-time low. Try and do two and a half hours Since Ben’s return to the Village, Find out more at www.nhs.uk about your health, joints Luckily, Ryfields have a secret weapon of moderate exercise each week his passion for a healthy lifestyle or mobility issues, please and with the recruitment of new has motivated the residents into talk to your Well-being Gym Instructor Ben Bloomfield, re-joining the gym. In January Advisor, GP or Fitness membership numbers are on their a special offer flyer went out to Do you have a fitness story you would like to share with us? Do get in touch! Instructor before you way up! residents and their families and start exercising. Ben worked with ExtraCare five membership is continuing to increase. The Extralife Team, The ExtraCare Charitable Trust, 7 Harry Weston Road, years ago, but left to play rugby Binley Business Park, Binley, Coventry, CV3 2SN The gym has a happy social in Australia. But Ryfields and the atmosphere, with residents saying they Email: [email protected] Phone: 02476 506011 residents always had a special place feel like they are all in it together. in Ben’s heart, so when news of the extralife 56 Well-being

Exercises can include: Would you like to find out more about Otago? Talk to your Walking Toe walking Well-being Advisor or Fitness Heel walking Instructor for more information! Knee bends Otago Leg lifts Arm movements Standing on one leg Otago sessions are a series of gentle exercise classes, designed to help prevent Stretches falls, strengthen the legs and improve balance. Residents who attend the classes say that most of them come because Chris Kemsley, the Gym Instructor at Lark Hill Village, invited Extralife along to they’ve had concerns about their one of his Otago classes to find out more… balance in the past. One said that she was there because she has Parkinson’s disease and the class was more suited to her than those recommended by the hospital. They were all agreed – while they knew the exercises and could do them in their own homes, they’d rather come to the class for the atmosphere and the accountability!

Peter Deaton lives at Lark Hill Village and has peripheral neuropathy, which has led to nerve damage in his feet. He says: “It means I have rather wobbly feet and legs, but I find that the classes really help. “I was at the very first class – it was just me and Chris there! That was good though, because Chris was able to use it to work out timings, and I definitely got lots of attention. “Exercise is really meant to help with my condition, and when I’m walking, I might have The classes at Lark Hill have been running for just over “I gave a talk in a street meeting to advertise the classes, a bit of pain for the first 100 feet or so, but after a year now. Although the Otago programme can be and we got a lot of people coming along after that. The delivered in a 12-week course, Chris prefers to keep the Well-being Advisor also refers people, and we do find that that it goes away and it does feel better. class going on a regular basis. people who come to the classes recommend them to others as well. “When I’m not taking the classes, I can definitely He runs two classes each week, Mondays and Fridays. Peter’s Each class can last for about half an hour, although now “I think it’s making a real difference.” feel that everything hurts a bit more. The classes that the group know the exercises so well, sessions are really help. And we have a bit of fun as well.” Each half-hour class, held in the Village hall, follows a story often quicker. similar format. Chris explains that he has a group of regulars who come There are some seated and some standing exercises. For along to most of the classes – to keep them progressing, Do you have a well-being story you would like to share? Contact the Extralife Team on 02476 506011, those worried about their balance or the ability to stand, he is planning to introduce ankle weights for some of the [email protected] or The Extralife Team, The ExtraCare Charitable Trust, 7 Harry Weston Road, even the standing exercises take place around a chair that existing exercises soon. Binley Business Park, Coventry, CV3 2SN participants can hold for support. extralife 58 Glorious Food My Job My Job

see where we can improve and also and went on to work on the cruise Malt Loaf what works well at the events. I ships. After 12 years of being away contact venues, make enquiries for from home I came back to the costings, availability of the venue, Midlands, and applied for this job. I source entertainment, and promote was so pleased to be doing something Mary Kirk from Reeve Court Village the event to the activity team, I love and not having to be away has been making this particular who then promote it in-house. I from home. run the event on the day, with the recipe for some 40 years. She says: One of my favourite times was the support from the activities staff. ExtraCare Olympics, which came They become the events team “It tastes even better if you together after two years of planning. on the day, organising transport, It was one of the most memorable greeting entertainers and residents, can leave it for a few days things that I’ve been part of with information points, etc. before eating, preferably ExtraCare, and it really brought Trying to find the perfect venue everyone together. a week if you can resist!” is difficult. I’m looking for accessibility, value for money, and reasonable travel time. It’s one of the most challenging parts Ingredients of my job. Another challenge is Mary with a slice of the malt loaf getting booking forms in on time. 1 mugful of All Bran or Bran Flakes We do need this information four 1 mugful of sugar – preferably brown weeks beforehand, so we can finalise 1 mugful of milk Donna Ball is ExtraCare’s catering arrangements, transport, 1 mugful of self-raising flower Activities & Events Manager. venue details, number of residents ½ mugful of dried fruit (optional) attending, etc. So please do buy your She’s worked for ExtraCare tickets early! for nearly 10 years. Here, she Method tells us more about her job… Part of my role is overseeing activities Place the bran, sugar, milk and dried fruit in locations and looking at new in a bowl and soak overnight. My primary role is to organise ideas. I don’t manage the activity ExtraCare’s traditions and events, staff but I’m there to support them. The next day, add the mugful of self- from concept to completion. I recognise the hard work they put raising flour. in. They’re a great team and always Everyday is different and I could be Mix well. strive to ensure the residents have working on 10 projects at any one a quality programme of activities, Pour into a 2lb loaf tin and bake in the time. Today I’ve been planning the entertainment and events. oven at approximately 150 degrees Festival of Choirs, potential bowls Celsius (300 Fahrenheit or Gas Mark 2) event, Symphony Hall and also some My favourite part of the job is visiting Symphony Hall is always great as for 45 minutes. finance admin. The job definitely the locations and meeting up with well. But I do enjoy the regional keeps me on my toes! the residents. It’s great to catch up To test if it’s cooked, pierce it through events too, where I can get around and have a chat. with a skewer. Even this early on, I’m working on and talk to everyone. the Symphony Hall concert, planning I’ve been working in the Look out for the ‘Time to shine’ what acts we believe the residents entertainment industry since the events this year, which the would enjoy. It’s difficult to get age of 18. I have to thank my mum activities team are working on. celebrities to commit so far ahead, for supporting me as a child and They will incorporate the Craft but we have to make enquiries so we encouraging me to take up dancing, Have you tried Mary’s recipe? Do you have one of your own to share with us? Would you like to contribute Fayre and Talent element plus can promote the show. drama and singing. I started dancing to the next issue of Glorious Food? many more surprises! at the age of four and my first The Extralife Team, The ExtraCare Charitable Trust, 7 Harry Weston Road, Binley Business Park, Binley, Coventry, CV3 2SN When organising any event, we job was working as a blue coat. I always refer to the feedback forms Email: [email protected] Phone: 02476 506011 continued performing professionally See you at the next event! the residents fill in. This helps us to extralife 60 Puzzle Page

? 1 5 7 3 8 WordSearch 4 1 7 S N O W D R O P S P E C I A L 1 7 6 ? P R I M U L A S C O L O U R S 4 3 2 1 7 9 R E L A Y E K E E L A Y N A N ? 8 6 7 1 I O E A O T T I N U S S A R G N T I B B A R K E N T N B E E 9 6 8 A selection? of? puzzles. Sudoku G U E U L I E I R A E A U A L Answers on page 64 7 1 3 2 O O T D U L E T Y R A P C R T 1 7 O D A S E M I N E B L I X A T S D R I B R E E Z E A L O N E 5 3 4 E H S T E A S R O R R U F D N E O U E L F E E O R T T L I E Pam Elam from Humber Court has produced a ACROSS S B M A L O O W A I T O Y A R Spring wordsearch. There 1. Confirmation (12) 7. Employed (4) P E E H S R T O T E U S E D G are also plenty of other words not listed here – see Crossword 8. Give-and-take (5-3) A E E L A K I L N S B S T R Y 9. Posture, bearing (6) how many you can find! 10. Clothing (6) R S L I D O F F A D A I S Y M Answers on page 64 11. Decay (3) 12. Square-bashing (5) 14. Ship’s cabin (5) BARK DRY PRIMULAS 16. Apple seed (3) BEES FLOWER RABBIT 18. Peter Pan creator (6) 20. Call for, involve (6) BERRIES FOX CUB SCENERY 22. State of panic (8) BLUEBELLS GOOSE SNOWDROPS 23. Gambol, caper (4) BREEZE GRASS SPRING 24. Suddenly make money (6, 2, 4) BUDS LAMBS SUN DOWN 1. Caller (7) COLOUR NETTLE TULIP 2. Underground gas (5) DAISY OAK TREE WOOL 3. Male parent (6) 4. Stock, neckwear (6) DAFFODILS PANSY 5. Playhouse (7) 6. Present, put forward (5) 13. Rhine siren (7) 15. Huge success (7) 16. Human beings (6) 17. Schulz character (6) 19. Hope for (5) 21. Sun hat (5)

extralife 62 Final Feature

Join the Why complete a fitness long as possible. We challenge? believe this challenge will demonstrate why Many older people are not getting retirement communities the physical exercise that will help are so successful, and why them delay illness and falls as they we should build more in age. Of older adults aged 65 and the UK. Cycle Challenge! over, living in England, 14% of men and 25% of women were classified as ‘walking impaired’, i.e., walking What will ARCO at speeds of less than 0.5 metres give you? per second. Walking ability declined ARCO will provide a with age as 36% of men and 56% communications toolkit to of women aged 85 and over noted go with the challenge so walking difficulties.* that ExtraCare Schemes and Villages will be able As older people move into care to create and plan their settings the level of activity drops own weekends according again. 78% of men and 86% of to what activities will women living in care homes in Great be of interest to their Britain were classified as inactive. This particular community. is twice as many as those who live in private households. So more information is on its way. Meanwhile, Cycling shows we are I wish you well with the successful and different challenge and thank you However, retirement communities in advance for your support - creating such as ExtraCare Schemes and a fun, inclusive challenge will show Villages are all about supporting that retirement communities offer a ExtraCare’s trade body, the Associated Retirement Community Operators older people to be active for as lifestyle and not just a place to live. (ARCO), is planning a national open day to let more people know about the value of your retirement communities. But it’s a day with a difference. For initial questions, please contact Richard Tower Michael Voges, Executive Director of ARCO, tells us more... ([email protected]) at Head Office (024 76 506011). He will be able to tell you more about The Associated Retirement agreed to take part. We would like to ExtraCare Charity Shops or another ARCO, and how you can assist in the open weekend. Community Operators invite your Scheme or Village to get charitable cause that’s relevant to (www.arcouk.org) is the trade body involved in our campaign to create a your community. *According to the British Heart Foundation national centre for physical activity and health for your Scheme or Village. We healthy living message for residents were set up two years ago to help and the local community, by taking Don’t worry if you don’t have enough Solution to Sudoku Solution to Word Search the public better understand what part in a cycling challenge. bikes on site, you can aim for a Puzzle Page Answers shorter distance - or if you can’t take Questions on pages 61-62 retirement communities are and 7 6 S N O W D R O P S P E C I A L We are challenging your residents, part in the cycling you can organise 1 5 7 3 8 4 9 2 P R I M U L A S C O L O U R S how they benefit older people. Solution to Crossword There are now 23 members and this their families and the local other activities that will showcase 8 6 4 5 9 2 1 7 3 R E L A Y E K E E L A Y N A N ACROSS I O E A O T T I N U S S A R G year we want to get behind all the community to collectively cycle - your community. 3 2 9 4 1 7 8 6 5 1. Verification 7. Used 8. Trade-off N T I B B A R K E N T N B E E fantastic work you do on your sites perhaps the equivalent of Land’s You may want to invite local 9. Stance 10. Attire 11. Rot 12. Drill 6 4 3 2 8 1 7 5 9 G U E U L I E I R A E A U A L and reach new customers, as well End to John O’Groats - over the O O T D U L E T Y R A P C R T open weekend? businesses or charities to participate, 14. Berth 16. Pip 18. Barrie 20. Entail 5 9 8 6 7 4 2 3 1 as their families. or you may want to drive 22. Tailspin 23. Romp 24. Strike it rich O D A S E M I N E B L I X A T 2 7 1 9 3 5 6 4 8 S D R I B R E E Z E A L O N E Your staff teams will be involved memberships to your gym and this DOWN E H S T E A S R O R R U F D N Nationwide community days in the planning and taking part; would prove a good opportunity 1. Visitor 2. Radon 3. Father 4. Cravat 7 1 5 8 4 9 3 2 6 E O U E L F E E O R T T L I E residents could sign up to contribute to get local people to have a look S B M A L O O W A I T O Y A R In order to get that message out, we 5. Theatre 6. Offer 13. Lorelei 4 3 2 1 5 6 9 8 7 are holding a national open weekend a few miles, tens of miles - or even around and showcase what is on offer 15. Triumph 16. People 17. Peanut P E E H S R T O T E U S E D G hundreds! You might want to use generally at your Scheme or Village. 19. Await 21. Terai 9 8 6 7 2 3 5 1 4 A E E L A K I L N S B S T R Y from Friday 18th to Sunday 20th R S L I D O F F A D A I S Y M September 2015 and ExtraCare has the challenge to support your local extralife 64 Coming up in 2015…

Bowls Tournament A trip on the June – to be confirmed Orient Express This year, there will also 30th August Festival of Choirs be a series of Passion Pannel Croft Village Garden in Bloom for Life events, held in 3rd June Beacon Park Village the Midlands, North and 15th September South regions. Festival of Choirs Lark Hill Village Garden in Bloom Spring 9th June Hagley Road Village North – 22nd April 22nd September Midlands – 7th April Festival of Choirs South – 14th April Reeve Court Village Garden in Bloom 17th June St Crispin Village Summer 1st October North – 9th July Festival of Choirs Midlands – 29th July Shenley Wood Village Snooker Tournament South – 23rd July 30th June Northampton 7th October Autumn Golf Tournament North – 15th October August – to be confirmed Symphony Hall Concert Midlands – 27th October Birmingham South – 5th November 25th November

For more information about events in your area, please contact the activity staff in your Scheme or Village! extralife - the magazine dedicated to ExtraCare’s residents march/april 2015