Care and Community: Working Hand in Hand

At Prestwick Care, we firmly believe that our homes should sit at the very heart of their communities. Quality care extends beyond the walls of our homes; it is about creating meaningful connections with the individuals, groups, and organisations that surround us.

This belief was very much reflected during Care Home Open Week in June, when our homes across the North East took great pride in opening their doors and celebrating the invaluable relationships we share with our local communities.

With care homes located from Sunderland to Alnwick, our commitment to enriching residents’ lives through varied activities, entertainment, and engagement remains steadfast. We have always welcomed visitors, whether family members, friends, or members of the public who wish to experience the warm and inclusive culture that defines Prestwick Care.

During this special week, our dedicated teams worked tirelessly to showcase that culture in action, celebrating both our residents and the remarkable staff whose professionalism and compassion are at the centre of everything we do.

Belle Vue House: At the Heart of the Sunderland Community

At Belle Vue House in Sunderland, the emphasis throughout the week was firmly on enjoyment, connection, and community spirit.

The programme began with a visit from therapy dog Harry and his handler, Anita, who are regular and much-loved visitors to the home. As one resident beautifully remarked, “Dogs have a way of finding people who need them and filling an emptiness we didn’t even know we had.”

That afternoon, residents and staff enjoyed a singalong in the sunshine with local entertainer Kevin Finnegan, accompanied by refreshments from the home’s outdoor bar.

Subsequent days offered a variety of activities: a pampering session with a visiting hairdresser, an outdoor afternoon tea, and a Music for the Mind event that brought together residents and their grandchildren for a shared music therapy experience.

Later in the week, a traditional pie and pea lunch was followed by a musical quiz, and celebrations concluded with a sociable bar afternoon, where residents enjoyed a selection of drinks and music from the home’s jukebox.

“All the residents joined in and laughed the whole week long,” said Home Manager Alison Oliver. “It was wonderful to see families spending quality time together and creating new memories. That is, ultimately, what care is all about.”

Heatherfield Care Home: A Celebration of Cultures

At Heatherfield Care Home in Annitsford, Cramlington, we chose to dedicate Care Home Open Week to celebrating the extraordinary team who deliver care with such professionalism and compassion every day.

Heatherfield’s workforce includes nurses, carers, kitchen, and domestic staff representing over ten different countries, including India, Africa, Poland, and Romania. To recognise this rich diversity, the home hosted a five-day Celebration of Cultures, featuring traditional food, music, storytelling, and dress from these nations -culminating in a celebration of all things Geordie on the final day.

Each day, the home was transformed to reflect a different culture, and residents, families, and visitors joined in with enthusiasm and pride.

“These wonderful colleagues work exceptionally hard to provide dedicated care to some of the most vulnerable individuals in the North East,” said Manager Fiona Payne. “This week was our opportunity to demonstrate just how much we value and appreciate them.”

Senior Care Assistant Juliet Ofuani offered a moving reflection on her role:

“This profession has taught me that true strength lies in kindness and patience. Working at Heatherfield is not merely a career – it is a calling. Every resident is treated as family, with dignity, respect, and love. Being a senior carer is about providing comfort, compassion, and a sense of belonging to those who need it most.”

A Shared Commitment

As we reflect on the success of Care Home Open Week, we are reminded of what truly defines Prestwick Care: our commitment to excellence, our respect for individuality, and our belief that care and community are inseparable.

Our homes are not just places of residence, they are places of belonging, where lives are enriched through compassion, inclusion, and connection.