Celebrating the Stories That Shape Us
At Each Other Care, we believe that every life is a unique story, filled with moments that define, connect and inspire us. National Storytelling Week was a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the lives of our residents, showing us that our stories are still being written.
For many of our residents, storytelling is a chance to share the things they love most. At New Springfield Care Home, Des’ love for trains has never faded. As a former conductor, he can name every model in his collection, transporting us back to the old Blackburn station with every story he tells. Then there’s David at White Ash Brook Care Home in Oswaldtwistle, who continues to share his love for art. After 30 years shaping young minds across the UK as an art teacher, he now brings that same passion to our weekly creative sessions, inspiring friends old and new to pick up a paintbrush and discover the joy of creating something beautiful.
Some of the most wonderful stories are written with the people who matter most. At The Abbeys Care Home in Rotherham, Marie has always thrived in the company of others. She spent over 40 years working in Stainforth, raising her two sons and for the past 48 years, has been happily married to the lovely Geoffrey. They still enjoy shopping trips together and he visits her every day. Mary and Christine’s friendship at Dunniwood Lodge Care Home in Doncaster is thrives on daily check-ins, shared chocolates and the occasional gin and tonic. These stories show how fulfilling life can be when shared with others and we are always finding new ways our residents can connect with friends, both old and new.
Sometimes stories leading to new beginnings. Mavis first arrived at Highfield Hall for a short respite stay, but within four weeks, she knew she had found her home. After a lifetime of teaching and building memories with her beloved James, she is now writing a new chapter, surrounded by kindness and friendship. John’s story is similar. When our manager Amanda asked if he’d like to make Shawcross Care Home in Ashton-In-Makerfield his home, his response was simple: “Oreet, yeah!” He hasn’t looked back since. Both Mavis and John remind us that home is where we feel we belong.
And then there are the stories that bring surprising reunions. John at Preston Glades Care Home experienced this firsthand when he bumped into Martin, a gentleman he mentored at a youth club many years ago. That shared history had never been forgotten and now, Martin and his wife plan to visit John regularly. It’s a reminder that the connections we make in life may one day come back in the most unexpected, wonderful ways.
At Brierfield House Care Home, Roy’s story is one of discovering new passions. Over a year ago, he decided to try something new and built a model campervan. That first project sparked a love for model-making and he hasn’t stopped since. His creations have become a source of pride for everyone at Brierfield. One of his models, an old-style car, now sits proudly in our senior team’s office, where it’s become a wonderful talking point for everyone who visits.
At Each Other Care, we’re proud to be part of these stories, creating meaningful relationships, being there for one another and bringing positivity and authenticity into every chapter. National Storytelling Week was a wonderful reminder of the power that reminiscing has and the wonderful conversations that follow. We can’t wait to share more with you.