CARE HOME RESIDENT DANCES THROUGH DEMENTIA INSPIRING CHAIR-O-SIZE CLASSES
Passionate performer and former co-owner of Yorkshire dance school, ‘Dance Worksop’, Sylvia Hawley, is tapping into the chair-based exercise trend to help her fellow residents keep fit.
The 84-year-old grandmother, a resident at Gateford Lodge care home in Worksop, has taken the role of leading “Chair-o-size” classes, drawing on decades of dance experience.
Born in Thurcroft, South Yorkshire, Sylvia’s love of dance began in childhood, where she took part in traditional activities such as maypole dancing. In her younger years, she briefly pursued dance professionally, performing as a “Betty Fox Babe” and appearing alongside well-known entertainers including Charlie Chester and Ken Dodd.
Today, Sylvia lives with dementia, but continues to speak vividly and enthusiastically about her dancing life, sharing her stories with staff and residents.
Motivated by her enduring passion, Sylvia approached staff at Gateford Lodge with the idea of leading a Chair-o-size class for fellow residents—combining gentle exercise with music and movement.
Sylvia said,
“I took some time off dancing to look after my family, but my passion never faded.
“I returned to dance in my 40s through keep-fit classes before moving onto jazz and tap. This led me to teaching and then to co-founding Dance Worksop.
“I am really enjoying teaching again – it’s been too long.”
Sylvia dedicated many years to teaching disciplines including jazz, tap, and ballet to over 100 students at the dance school’s peak. She even gained a formal ballet teaching qualification in her 50s.
Sylvias son, Stephen Hawley said,
“Whilst the Alzheimer’s has robbed mum of most of her memory, she has a vivid recollection of her dancing era and loves to share her stories.
“This initiative has been an amazingly positive and enjoyable experience for mum and all the residents.”
A regular at Sylvia’s classes, 84-year-old, Guy Mathews said,
“Sylvia brings so much energy and happiness to every session. I always leave with a smile on my face and can’t wait for the next one.”
Home manager at Gateford Lodge, Luke Curley said,
“We all love hearing Sylvia’s stories about her dancing days.
“When she approached us about leading a class of her own, we were only too pleased to support her and the residents are thoroughly enjoying her classes.
“Whilst the residents will get a lot out of Sylvia’s classes, Sylvia herself is using the classes as a form of reminiscence therapy, which we know is particularly beneficial for people living with dementia.”
Meallmore Confirms 30th Care Home with Eaglesham House Development
Scotland’s leading provider of older person and specialist care, Meallmore, is set to open its 30th care home in spring 2027.
Located in Clarkston, East Renfrewshire, Eaglesham House Care Home will provide personalised nursing care and support for 50 people, including those with dementia and its related conditions.
The purpose-built, state-of-the-art care home will feature a range of amenities including private ensuite bedrooms, a cinema room, hair salon and champagne bar, all thoughtfully designed for residents to relax, socialise and enjoy everyday life.
Once open, Eaglesham House will provide in the region of 80 full-time equivalent jobs in a variety of roles, including nurses, care assistants, services team members, administrators, and managers. Recruitment for these roles will commence in September.
Built on the former grounds of Greenbank Church, the opening of Eaglesham House represents a £15m investment by Meallmore to the local community, supporting continued investment in local facilities. The development forms part of a wider approach to creating high-quality care homes that respond to Scotland’s ageing population and the growing need for modern care services.
Eaglesham House is Meallmore’s 30th care home in Scotland, and ninth within the Greater Glasgow and West Scotland region.
Earlier this year, Meallmore was named in the Top 20 Large Care Home Groups across the UK for the first time and is recognised for excellent standards of care for its residents, including those living with dementia.
Cillian Hennessey, CEO at Meallmore said:
“Eaglesham House is a fantastic addition to our care home portfolio. This modern, luxury home will be finished to the highest standards and is designed for people who want to live well, with the reassurance of expert 24-hour nursing care and support around them. It will provide a safe, comfortable and homely environment for residents, where they can feel part of a warm community. Our experience from managing eight other homes in this region of Scotland means we are very well-equipped with knowledge of the area and will look to continue building strong connections with local members of the public and community groups.
“We’re very proud to be opening what will be our 30th care home and look forward to welcoming residents to Eaglesham House next year.”
Meallmore currently operates 27 homes across Scotland: 21 for older people, five for adults with mental health needs and one for adults with learning or physical disability. Along with Eaglesham House, two other new homes are nearing completion, which will provide services for elderly people in Aberdeen City and Broughty Ferry.
BARCHESTER HEALTHCARE BRINGS LUXURY NEW CARE HOME TO MAIDSTONE
Award-winning national care provider, Barchester Healthcare, has broken ground on a brand new 67-bed luxury care home development in Maidstone.
The new home, which will be named Orchid Place, is being built by Jenner (Contractors) Ltd, and is owned and will be operated by Barchester Healthcare. The home will provide personalised residential, dementia and respite care for older people in Maidstone and the surrounding areas from early 2028.
The luxury new home has been designed with residents’ comfort in mind with a café for residents to socialise and enjoy freshly baked treats, spa bathrooms for a luxury bath time experience, beautiful en-suite bedrooms with smart TVs, a choice of comfortable lounges, a dedicated activities room, a cinema for an authentic movie experience, and in-house hair and beauty salon for a little bit of pampering.
Barchester Healthcare is committed to providing a premium caring experience. Barchester staff take pride in getting to know each of their residents to provide tailored care and support, ensuring dignity and choice in every aspect of daily life. Once open, the home will provide a dedicated Life Enrichment programme which includes a choice of daily activities so that residents can continue to do the things they love, try something new and above all keep the enjoyment in every day. Talented chefs will prepare delicious, nutritious home-cooked meals from seasonal menus, created with residents’ preferences in mind.
Senior Property Development Manager at Barchester, John McElholm, commented: “We are really excited to get this project under way. Our Maidstone home will be a fantastic addition to the local community.”
Aaron Stoakes, Senior Surveyor for Jenner, said: “We are delighted to be starting this new project working with Barchester Healthcare once again. We are looking forward to the build process and working closely with the Barchester team. This is a fantastic looking building sited in a great location. Together with our management team and carefully chosen sub-contractors, we will deliver this project as planned by early 2028.”
The care home will have an on-site marketing suite that will open its doors to the local community and visitors in Autumn 2027.
Evolve Care Academy: Changing the Moment to Create Connection
Every person receiving care, whether in a care setting or at home, brings with them their own life experiences, personality, preferences and ways of communicating. Because of this, building meaningful connections is not always straightforward and often requires patience, understanding and a willingness to see the world through their eyes.
Some people may be navigating a cognitive journey that affects how they process information, communicate or make sense of their surroundings. Others may be living with a Dementia, which can influence how they experience the world around them. Some people may express distress or communicate their needs in ways that are less easily understood, while others may value their independence and need time to develop trust and feel comfortable accepting support.
Whatever their circumstances, taking the time to understand the individual behind the diagnosis, behaviour, or care need, is often the foundation for building genuine relationships and providing meaningful support.
Throughout the year, people working across the Evolve homes in Devon, Wales and Somerset, alongside those working within our Central Support office, take part in training days at the Evolve Care Academy in Bristol. The thinking behind this is simple; regardless of role, everyone should understand the people living within our homes, their life experiences, preferences and the approaches used to support them.
Whether someone works in care, catering, housekeeping, maintenance, administration, or anything in between, they are still part of the environment that family members call home. By developing this understanding, people across every department can better appreciate the impact they have on daily life within the home and the part they play in supporting those who live there.
A Communications Perspective: What Training Taught Me About Care
Having worked within the communications team for almost a year now, I regularly visit our homes and spend time with family members and those supporting them. As someone with no previous experience working in social care, I initially felt out of my depth when I entered the sector. But I was amazed by how much I had learned about Dementia care and care more broadly in just a few short months.
Attending training gives me valuable context when listening to family member and team member stories and sharing them with others. What I find particularly valuable is hearing directly from those attending the training. The discussions often draw on real experiences from the homes, providing an insight into the situations people encounter, the decisions they make and the thinking behind them. It helps bring the training to life in a way that reading or e-learning never could.
What Makes a Person Feel Safe?
The most recent training sessions held in the training room, Seen, Heard, Valued, were designed to explore why creating connections with the people who live with us is so important, and how this helps those living with us to feel safe.
As we entered the training room, the ceiling was covered in a jumble of different items. There were uniforms from a range of occupations, including a nurse’s uniform, police uniform, high-vis jackets and hard hats. Foam football hands hung alongside Christmas decorations, while flags from more countries around the world lined the edge of the room. Together, these objects represented the many things that can make up a person’s identity; where they come from, their culture, the work they once did and the life they have lived.
As the session began, we discussed Thomas Kitwood’s philosophy and why attachment, inclusion, occupation, identity, comfort and love are so important, particularly for people living with a Dementia.
Eve Carder, Clinical Lead at Evolve, explained, ‘Our job is to keep people safe. It is as simple as that. What’s more complex is what a person needs in order to feel safe.’
What I understood from this was that it is not enough for people living in our homes to simply be physically safe. They also need to feel emotionally and mentally safe within the environment around them and the people supporting them each day.
There were discussions around why someone living in our homes may not always feel seen, heard or valued, and how a lack of meaningful connection and understanding can leave a person feeling overlooked or alone. It was explained that if our teams are unable to truly connect with the people living in our care, it becomes far more difficult to understand what they need.
The Big Question
On the tables in the training room were a number of headbands with large question marks attached. We were encouraged to put them on and consider what they might represent. To me, they symbolised the idea that a person is only an ‘unknown’ until we take the time to ask the right questions and truly get to know them; they are, essentially, a big ‘question mark’ until we peel back the layers.
As I am still learning what it means for someone to be living with a Dementia, or on a cognitive journey, I had not considered that some people living in our care may not be able to tell us about themselves or their life history, and may also have no loved ones around them who are able to fill in those gaps for us.
Eve explained that, for some people, being asked multiple direct questions can leave them feeling confused or overwhelmed, causing them to shut down and struggle to respond.
We were also shown brain scans of people living with a Dementia, illustrating how brain cells shrink and die as the disease progresses, leaving parts of the brain darkened and permanently damaged. It was explained how this loss of brain function can affect cognition, including a person’s ability to problem solve, regulate emotions, communicate and make decisions.
What the question mark headbands actually represented was the experience of people living with a Dementia or cognitive condition that affects their ability to answer questions or express themselves in the way they once could, because parts of the brain are no longer functioning properly.
I found myself imagining what it might feel like to be asked multiple questions while being unable to connect memories, thoughts or experiences together clearly in my mind, and realised how confusing and frustrating that experience must be.
Because direct questioning may not always be the most effective way to connect with or understand our family members, a number of exercises had been designed to help team members adapt their approaches in more complex situations. The aim was to give people the confidence and tools to think creatively, work outside the box and find ways to ‘change the moment’ in order to create meaningful connection.
Image Association
The first exercise involved each table receiving a set of Q-cards, with every person given a card displaying a random image of a person, place or object. We were then asked to use the images to build a story together, connecting each card to the next as the conversation moved around the table.
For example, one of the cards showed people running a marathon, so I explained that from a young age I had always wanted to run long distance but had been held back by shin splints (which was actually true!) The next person’s card showed people dressed in military uniforms, so they continued the story by saying that, once they’d given up the dream of being a marathon runner, they had joined the army because they still wanted an active lifestyle, and the story carried on from there.
The purpose of the exercise was to respond to the previous person’s story and relate it to your own, using the images as inspiration while keeping the conversation connected. In practice, this could look like listening to a family member sharing memories or experiences and finding ways to relate to what they are saying, helping to create opportunities for further conversation, connection and trust.
A Bag of Stuff
In another exercise, bags containing five random objects were placed on each table. We were invited to take out one item at a time and create a story inspired by it with the rest of the group.
The exercise encouraged storytelling as a way of connecting with others, using everyday objects as a starting point for conversation. The stories could be personal memories, stories heard from others or completely imagined. What mattered most was the act of sharing and creating something engaging together.
Something as simple as picking up a beach towel and talking about a sunny holiday in Spain may encourage someone else to begin speaking about their own experiences of travelling, holidays or time spent with loved ones, bringing familiarity, comfort and positive emotions into the conversation.
These exercises really brought home to me how caring roles can give people the opportunity to use creativity in meaningful ways to build trust and connection. Alongside exploring ways to create connection, we also discussed the things that can cause people to disconnect or feel controlled rather than supported.
Dementia Language
In one corner of the room stood a series of mock walls spray painted with phrases such as ‘no’, ‘don’t do that’ and ‘not now’. We discussed how language like this can feel restrictive and, over time, may contribute to a person feeling a loss of independence, choice and autonomy. It was explained that, in some situations, constantly feeling controlled rather than supported can lead to distress and expressive behaviour.
Even when these things are said with the intention of keeping someone safe, they can still leave a person feeling emotionally unsafe by creating a sense of lost control. We explored how words, tone, touch, presence and attention can all shape the way a person experiences the world around them and how, when used negatively or without thought, they may leave a lasting emotional impact.
We explored how these same things can also be used positively to create an emotional shift and help someone feel reassured, calm and connected. This may be through using the right words in a gentle or friendly tone, meeting someone where they are in their journey and using language that makes sense to them. It may also be through touch, such as holding a person’s hand to show you are there with them rather than trying to direct or control them, or by lowering yourself to their level and creating a sense of reassurance and presence. Attention was also discussed in terms of truly getting to know the person and not losing sight of the identity behind the diagnosis.
Our care teams have the ability to influence the tone and energy of the day. While they may not always be able to control how someone presents in that moment, they can control their own response and the way they approach challenging situations.
Alongside the care provided by our teams, environment also plays a significant role in helping family members feel at home, comfortable and safe within the spaces around them.
The Importance of Environment
As a last exercise in the training, we were asked to explore an area of the training room where a number of simulated environments had been built. Bedrooms, living rooms and dining rooms were set up as examples of inviting and colourful environments that encouraged stimulation, alongside environments which felt uninviting, dull or institutional, to show the impact and importance of creating spaces that feel positive, homely, engaging and personal.
I recalled a similar exercise from the first training session I attended at the beginning of my role and found it fascinating that dining tables within the homes may have miscellaneous objects placed on them, such as puzzles, colouring books or memory cards, to encourage family members to interact with them and create opportunities for conversation and engagement.
These are tables set for more than just a meal. A soft toy, or a newspaper become something to pick up or look at while sitting down to eat. For those who take a little longer, or don’t always feel like eating, having something nearby to focus on and engage with can make all the difference.
And for people living with a Dementia or are on a cognitive journey, they may not always have the words, or no longer able to process and express the desire, to engage with an activity or task, but when they come across something in front of them, it may naturally spark curiosity, familiarity or engagement.
As someone who initially saw these dining tables as cluttered with objects unrelated to mealtimes, the way I now understand the dining experience has changed dramatically. It is not simply about eating a meal, but about creating opportunities for comfort, connection and engagement, just as all environments throughout the home should aim to do.
Speaking about the importance of creating a true sense of home, Eve shared, ‘We are not creating institutions, we are creating homes, places of safety, of creativity and hopefully magic.’
What I Took Away
I know there will always be more for me to learn about care and Dementia care. Leaders like Eve Carder and the wider clinical team have so much expertise and decades of experience that I cannot hope to gain just by attending a few training sessions.
What I have learned so far, however, has left me genuinely moved and inspired. The idea that, no matter where someone is on their cognitive or Dementia journey, there are still ways to connect with them; the challenge is simply finding out how to reach them.
To read more about training, learning and development provided by Evolve Care Group in their Evolve Care Academy, visit https://www.evolvecareacademy.com/
By Ayla Melville, Marketing and Communications Assistant at Evolve Care Group
Westgate Healthcare Qualified to Deliver Specialist Dementia Dining Training
Westgate Healthcare has strengthened its dementia care training programme after becoming one of only three UK care providers authorised to deliver Dining Immersive Experiential Training (DIET) in-house.
The milestone follows the qualification of Westgate Healthcare’s Group Training Manager, Maria Fagen, as a facilitator for the DIET programme, developed by Training2Care.
The training helps care teams better understand the challenges people living with dementia can experience during mealtimes, including changes in perception, sensory processing, coordination and cognition. Using specialist sensory equipment, colleagues are guided through a simulated dining experience to help them experience first-hand how eating and drinking can become confusing, frustrating or overwhelming for residents living with dementia.
Westgate Healthcare has now embedded DIET training into its three-day induction programme, alongside the Virtual Dementia Experience, another immersive Training2Care programme completed by Maria earlier this year.
This means every new colleague joining Westgate Healthcare will experience both forms of specialist dementia training from the beginning of their career with the organisation, supporting a culture of empathy, understanding and person-led care from day one.
Maria said: “Delivering outstanding dementia care starts with understanding the person behind the diagnosis.
“The DIET programme is incredibly powerful because it allows people to experience just how challenging something as simple as eating and drinking can become. By introducing this training into our programme, every colleague begins their journey with greater empathy, confidence and understanding.
“I’m incredibly proud that Westgate Healthcare is one of only three organisations able to deliver this training internally, allowing us to continually develop our teams and ultimately improve the lives of our residents.”
Maintaining good nutrition and hydration can be one of the greatest challenges for people living with dementia. Westgate Healthcare says the training is designed to help colleagues make meaningful changes to mealtime support, with the aim of improving residents’ nutritional intake, wellbeing and overall quality of care.
A spokesperson for Training2Care said: “The Virtual Dementia Tour, DIET and Dementia Interpreters courses enable people to understand dementia in a way that simply isn’t possible through traditional training methods.
“Rather than just increasing knowledge, these programmes develop empathy, challenge perceptions and empower people to make meaningful changes that improve the lives of those affected by dementia.
“Westgate Healthcare has demonstrated a genuine commitment to investing in its people and, ultimately, in the quality of care it provides. By embracing innovative learning experiences, it is helping to create a workforce that is better equipped to deliver compassionate, person-led care.
“We are incredibly proud to partner with Westgate Healthcare and support its commitment to excellence. We look forward to seeing the continued impact of the DIET programme as even more colleagues develop the knowledge, confidence and understanding needed to make a real difference to the lives of people with dementia.”
The move forms part of Westgate Healthcare’s wider commitment to investing in pioneering dementia education and staff development.
By bringing nationally recognised immersive training programmes in-house, the care provider aims to ensure colleagues across the organisation have the skills, confidence and compassion to support residents living with dementia.
A Night at Martello Manor
Ahead of opening its doors to residents, Martello Manor in Hythe offered a first-hand glimpse into Boutique Care Homes’ distinctive approach; blending hospitality, community, and culture in a thoughtfully curated pre-opening sleepover.
Martello Manor, the newest addition to Boutique Care Homes’ portfolio, is set to welcome its first residents later this month in Hythe, Kent. Before the doors officially open, I was invited to take part in one of Boutique’s pre-opening sleepovers; a tradition designed to bring together staff, partners, and the local community. It’s a simple idea, but one that feels incredibly effective.
The evening began with canapés and a glass of something sparkling, giving everyone the chance to settle in and get to know one another. Representatives from local groups, including Hythe Dementia Together, were there, alongside the Boutique team. What I found particularly touching was the presence of a soon-to-be resident’s family, experiencing the home ahead of move-in. It added a very real sense of purpose to the evening.
Dinner followed in the ground-floor dining room, where we were served a three-course meal reflective of what residents can expect day-to-day. It struck me how carefully the experience had been considered: restaurant-quality service, but without any sense of formality or distance. My red pepper soup, salmon with vegetables, and hazelnut chocolate slice were all excellent, but more than that, the atmosphere felt relaxed and sociable, exactly as dining in a care setting should.
After dinner, things took a more playful turn with a treasure hunt around the home. Guided by cryptic clues linked to both Martello Manor and the local area, we explored the building while completing a series of challenges. Some were light-hearted, like seeing how far two people could stand apart and still play catch with an egg (they weren’t hard-boiled), while others encouraged a bit more reflection, such as attempting tasks with dexterity-limiting gloves. It was a brilliant experience: engaging, genuinely fun, and cleverly designed to build empathy without ever feeling forced.
The evening continued with a quiz, before everyone gradually drifted back to the lounge. It was here that I had some of the most interesting conversations of the night. Speaking with newer members of staff, their enthusiasm for the culture at Boutique was clear. Even before residents had arrived, they spoke about feeling supported, valued, and genuinely excited for what’s ahead. It echoed conversations I’ve had previously with leadership, and it was reassuring to hear it reflected so strongly on the ground.
Eventually, we all retired to our rooms. Mine was beautifully designed, complete with an en-suite, and struck that careful balance between hotel comfort and a sense of home. It was an easy place to relax, and, importantly, to imagine living.
Spending the night at Martello Manor didn’t just showcase a new building; it offered a genuine insight into the thinking behind it. I’m already looking forward to returning to see the home come to life once residents have settled in.
Inside The Chartwellion: A Shop Built and Run by Care Home Residents
Finding meaningful, purposeful activity for residents remains one of the more persistent challenges in care home life, particularly for those living with dementia. Generic activity schedules can only go so far; the real value often lies in giving residents genuine roles, responsibility and a reason to feel useful. Chartwell Care Home in Broadstairs has taken that principle and built an entire enterprise around it.
The home has opened The Chartwellion, a shop conceived, stocked and run by residents themselves. It opened on 7 July 2026 following a period of consultation in which residents shaped every aspect of what the shop sells and how it operates.
From an observation to an enterprise
The idea began with something simple: residents enjoyed trips to the nearby Westwood Cross Shopping Centre but wanted the same independence and convenience without leaving home. The Chartwellion answers that directly, stocking items residents asked for, including stamps, greetings cards, gifts, confectionery, toiletries and personal care products. The range continues to evolve as residents give feedback on what they'd like to see next.
Even the name has resident fingerprints on it. Chartwellion nods to the lions of Chartwell, and resident Peter marked the occasion by painting a canvas lion that now sits at the heart of the shop.
Residents in charge, not just involved
What distinguishes The Chartwellion from a typical on-site amenity is who runs it. Supported by Chartwell House's Life Enrichment Team, residents serve customers, handle purchases, organise stock and manage the shop's daily running themselves.
For several residents, this taps into real history. A number previously worked in customer-facing roles, including retail and the Post Office, and the shop gives them a chance to reconnect with skills and routines that are genuinely familiar to them. For residents living with dementia, this kind of purposeful, role-based activity can be particularly powerful. The Alzheimer's Society's research points to the wellbeing value of maintaining familiar routines and engaging in meaningful activity, including stronger self-esteem, reduced isolation and improved overall wellbeing.
Taryn, Head of Lifestyle and Wellbeing at Chartwell House, explains why the shop has resonated so strongly: "The Chartwellion is much more than a shop. It's about giving residents choice, purpose and ownership. Every product on the shelves has been selected because our residents told us they wanted it there, and many of our residents now play an active role in running the shop. For those living with dementia, familiar routines such as serving customers or organising stock can spark wonderful conversations and memories from earlier in life. Seeing residents take pride in welcoming customers and supporting one another has been incredibly rewarding."
Resident Beryl sums up what the shop means day to day: "I think it's a wonderful idea. It's lovely to be able to pop into the shop whenever we need something, and it's even nicer knowing that we've helped create it. It feels like our own little community shop."
Part of a wider wellbeing framework
The Chartwellion sits within Chartwell House's Life Enrichment Programme, structured around six principles: Contribute, Grow, Reflect, Feel, Move and Connect. Rather than a standalone initiative, it reflects an approach favoured across Boutique Care Homes more broadly: listening closely to what residents want and giving them the means to build it themselves.
For other providers considering similar projects, the lesson isn't necessarily the shop format itself, but the process behind it — starting from what residents actually ask for, then handing over real responsibility rather than simply offering supervised participation. It's a distinction that can make the difference between an activity residents attend and one they genuinely own.
A Game of 64 Squares
Chess is gaining traction in care homes as a powerful tool for cognitive stimulation and social connection. In this feature, Mark Rivlin shares his perspective on the game’s growing role in later life, speaking on behalf of Chess in Schools and Communities and its “Older and Bolder” initiative.
Chess might not be the first activity that comes to mind in a busy care home environment, but that is beginning to change. Once seen as a quiet pastime for enthusiasts, the game is experiencing a resurgence across the UK and is increasingly finding a natural home in care settings.
For providers navigating the ongoing challenge of delivering meaningful, low-cost, and inclusive activities, chess offers a compelling proposition. It is easy to introduce, adaptable to different cognitive and physical abilities, and uniquely positioned to support both wellbeing and social engagement.
A growing movement
The renewed popularity of chess has been driven by a combination of cultural and digital influences. Online platforms have made the game more accessible than ever, while mainstream media has helped reposition it as both aspirational and inclusive. Crucially, this momentum is no longer limited to younger audiences.
Organisations such as Chess in Schools and Communities (CSC) are now actively extending their reach into older populations. With over two decades of experience delivering chess programmes in schools and community settings, the charity has launched its “Older and Bolder” initiative, specifically designed to bring chess into care homes.
The programme builds on successful pilots across the country, from structured courses in partnership with Age UK in Brighton, to community-based sessions in Westminster and Bracknell. These initiatives have demonstrated that, with the right support, chess can engage both complete beginners and experienced players later in life.
More than just a game
At its core, chess is a cognitively stimulating activity. It requires concentration, memory, planning, and decision-making: all skills that are highly relevant to maintaining mental agility in older age.
Emerging research supports this; studies on cognitively stimulating leisure activities suggest they may help reduce the risk of developing conditions such as dementia. While chess is not a preventative solution in isolation, it forms part of a broader toolkit of activities that can contribute to brain health.
Importantly for care settings, chess also appears to remain accessible even as cognitive decline progresses. There is evidence to suggest that individuals living with advanced dementia can retain the ability to engage with the game, offering a rare opportunity for continuity and familiarity.
Beyond cognition, the social dimension of chess is equally valuable. Whether played one-to-one or in a small group, it creates natural opportunities for interaction, conversation, and shared experience. In environments where loneliness and isolation remain ongoing concerns, this should not be underestimated.
A personal perspective
For many, chess is not just an activity but a lifelong companion. Mark Rivlin describes a personal connection that spans decades: “I was introduced to the game of chess at the age of five. My father was a strong player and taught me the moves. Now at the age of seventy, I have notched up six decades of playing the game… Win, lose or draw, I enjoy the challenge of playing against people of all ages, backgrounds and abilities.”
This intergenerational appeal is part of what makes chess particularly suited to care environments. It can bridge gaps between residents, staff, and even visiting family members, creating a shared language that transcends age and background.
Rivlin also highlights the game’s accessibility: “Chess is easy to learn, enjoy and succeed, and most importantly, it is great fun to play.”
That simplicity is key. Unlike some activities that require extensive setup, specialised equipment, or significant staffing resources, chess can be introduced at minimal cost and with minimal space.
Practical implementation in care homes
For activity coordinators, the question is not whether chess has value, but how easily it can be embedded into an already busy programme.
The answer, in most cases, is straightforward.
A basic setup requires only a small number of boards and pieces, all of which can be easily stored. Sessions can be run informally, allowing residents to drop in and play at their own pace, or in more structured formats for those who prefer guided learning.
CSC’s “Older and Bolder” programme offers additional support, including trained tutors, teaching materials, and staff training. This can be particularly beneficial in homes where there is limited prior experience of delivering chess-based activities.
There is also scope to build variety into the programme. Mini tournaments, themed activity days, or even friendly matches with local schools or community groups can help sustain engagement over time. For residents with digital access, online platforms offer further opportunities to play and improve skills.
Inclusive by design
One of chess’s greatest strengths is its adaptability. It can be simplified for beginners, paced according to individual ability, and even adapted for those with visual or physical impairments through specialist boards and pieces.
This makes it an inclusive option within diverse resident populations. Whether someone is encountering the game for the first time or returning to it after many years, there is a clear entry point.
A strategic addition
As care providers continue to rethink activity provision in response to changing expectations, chess represents a low-risk, high-impact addition.
It aligns with key priorities across the sector: supporting cognitive health, encouraging social interaction, and delivering meaningful engagement without placing undue strain on resources.
Perhaps most importantly, it brings an element of challenge and purpose. On a board of 64 squares, every move matters, and for residents, that sense of agency and involvement can be powerful.
Rivlin describes chess as “a magical chessboard” with “thousands of options for attack, defense, and even making mistakes”. This mix of challenge, enjoyment, and human connection is what makes chess a meaningful activity in care home environments.
Dedicated Luxury Care Apartments Launched to Halt ‘Forced Separation’ of Couples in Care
Family care provider Ardale has announced the launch of The Ashridge Apartments at Welwyn Grange, a collection of purpose-designed care suites created to support couples who wish to continue living together while receiving personalised care.
Comprising 13 penthouse-style care suites, the apartments provide couples with the opportunity to maintain shared routines and enjoy greater privacy and independence, while benefiting from access to tailored care and nursing support as their individual needs evolve.
The launch reflects the challenges many couples face when one partner's care needs become more complex. Differences in health needs, such as when one partner develops dementia while the other requires minimal support, can make finding suitable accommodation difficult. The Ashridge Apartments have been designed to provide an option for couples who want to remain together while each receiving the level of support they need.
A Home Designed for Couples
Located on the top floor of Welwyn Grange, The Ashridge Apartments combine independent living with access to 24/7 nurse-led care. Residents have their own private accommodation while remaining connected to the wider care community and professional support whenever required.
Key Features of The Ashridge Apartments
- Private apartment layouts: Each penthouse-style suite includes a separate bedroom, private lounge, kitchenette, and most feature a private balcony.
- 24/7 clinical support: Residents have access to an on-site nursing and care team, with support tailored to each person's individual needs.
- Shared amenities: Couples can enjoy Welwyn Grange's facilities, including a cinema room, hair and beauty salon, bar/café, interactive digital touch table and landscaped courtyard garden.
- All-inclusive fees: A single monthly fee covers care, meals, laundry, utilities and security.
"For many couples, moving into care can bring understandable concerns about whether they will be able to continue living together as their needs change.
"The Ashridge Apartments have been designed to offer couples a home where they can continue sharing everyday life while receiving flexible care that can adapt to each person's individual requirements.
"By bringing together private living space with access to round-the-clock support, we hope to provide reassurance for couples and their families as care needs evolve."
Robert Myers, Head of Care Pathways at Welwyn Grange
Jayne Connery, Founder of Care Campaign for the Vulnerable, welcomed the initiative, saying:
"I have visited Ardale care homes many times over the years through my work with Care Campaign for the Vulnerable, and I have always been impressed by their commitment to transparency, safety, dignity and truly person-centred care.
"The new Ashridge Apartments at Welwyn Grange are a wonderful example of thinking differently about later life. Too many older couples face the heartbreaking prospect of being separated when one partner's care needs become more complex, particularly following a dementia diagnosis or the need for nursing care.
"It is encouraging to see the Ashridge Apartments offering couples the opportunity to remain together while receiving the care and support they each need, with privacy, independence and 24-hour nursing available whenever required.
"At Care Campaign for the Vulnerable, we believe safety, dignity and quality care must always go hand in hand with compassion. Love, familiarity, routine and the comfort of remaining together are just as important to wellbeing."
The Ashridge Apartments are now open for viewings and immediate occupancy. Couples, families and healthcare professionals interested in learning more can explore the apartment layouts and arrange a viewing via Welwyn Grange.
Why Life Stories Are the Foundation of Truly Person-Centred Care
After Cloud founder Darren Evans explains how personal experience inspired Storyteller, why digital life stories are transforming person-centred care, and how preserving identity can strengthen relationships, improve staff confidence and ensure every individual is known beyond their care plan.
How has your journey shaped the platform, and why do you believe preserving life stories is becoming an essential part of high-quality care?
I did not arrive at this from the outside looking in. The catalyst for Storyteller was deeply personal; my mother-in-law lived with Lewy Body Dementia, and watching that illness take hold taught me something I have never forgotten: when a person you know or love dies, a whole lifetime of information and knowledge can be lost in a heartbeat, and there is sadly no retrieval. That loss stays with you. Alongside that, I have spent more than twenty-five years working in and around social care technology, and the idea for Storyteller grew from years of watching, up close, what happens when the person behind the care plan gets lost. I have seen children move through multiple placements with their history scattered across paper files and institutional memory that walks out the door when a key worker leaves. I have seen adults in residential care reduced to a list of needs and risks, with the life they actually lived nowhere to be found. Preserving life stories is not a nice-to-have sitting alongside care; it is part of what good care actually means, because you cannot truly meet someone's needs if you do not know who they are. Our job is to ensure that we know the person rather than the condition.
How can digital life story technology help staff better understand residents beyond their care plans?
A care plan tells you what a person needs done for them. It does not tell you who they are, what they have lived through, what makes them laugh, or what they are frightened of. Done well, digital life story work gives staff a living picture they can return to and add to over time, so that every shift, every new starter, every agency worker stepping in for a day has access to the same depth of understanding rather than relying on whoever happened to ask the right question once. That consistency matters enormously in a sector with high staff turnover and constant handover. It is the difference between care that is administered and care that is genuinely informed and safely and securely accessible.
Where do you see technology adding the greatest value without replacing the human relationships that are at the heart of care?
As I see it, technology's job here is to remove friction, not to stand in for connection. The greatest value is in making sure that the right piece of someone's story surfaces at the right moment, in the hands of the person actually sitting with them, so that a conversation can happen that would otherwise never have started. It also has real value in capturing and safeguarding history that would otherwise be lost entirely, particularly for children in care whose records can be fragmented across multiple agencies and placements, and for adults whose families may not always be present to pass on what they know. But the relationship itself, the moment a carer sits down and asks about someone's wedding day or their first job, that is entirely human, and it always will be. Carers themselves do a fantastic job of caring, and our job is to make sure they walk into that moment prepared, and for activity coordinators to capture the moments of joy that can often take place in a progressive care setting.
How does After Cloud help strengthen relationships between residents, relatives and care teams?
Storyteller is built so that the story is never owned by any one party. I actually believe the story should ideally be applied, even before resident admission. Residents, families, and care teams can all contribute over time, so the record keeps growing rather than sitting stagnant from the day someone joins a service. For families, that is often deeply meaningful, particularly when distance, time, or a loved one's condition makes regular visiting difficult. It gives them a way to stay genuinely involved rather than feeling like visitors to someone else's care. For care teams, it builds trust with families because they can see, not just be told, that the person they love is known. And because Storyteller was designed from the outset to work across both children's and adults' social care, that same principle, that everyone with a legitimate stake in a person's story should be able to contribute to and draw on it safely, applies across the whole of someone's life, not just one chapter of it.
What feedback have you received from care providers using After Cloud, and are there any examples where the platform has demonstrably improved resident wellbeing, engagement or staff confidence?
It's important for readers to know that we are led by an independent steering group of social care thought leaders, chaired by Des Kelly OBE (Des is currently acting as EU Exit Planning Lead for the Care Provider Alliance. He is also Chair of the Centre for Policy on Ageing and was Executive Director of the National Care Forum from 2003 to 2016). We work with innovative organisations including Eleanor Healthcare Group, who are rolling Storyteller out across sixteen of their care homes this year, alongside many other esteemed providers such as Athena Care Group, Panacea, Niche Care Homes, Families First, Amberleigh Care and the Borough of Telford and Wrekin, attracting both CQC and OFSTED-related feedback during regulatory visits. The feedback we hear most consistently is about confidence, staff telling us they feel better equipped walking into a new resident's room or a first meeting with a child in care because they are not starting from nothing. We are also building a formal evidence base for this, including a research pathway exploring Storyteller's impact in residential care, because we believe the case for life story work should stand up to the same scrutiny as any other clinical or care intervention, not rest on anecdote alone. We are proud to hold ARA accreditation and to have been named Innovator of the Year, recognition that reflects the seriousness with which we approach this work. Storyteller was also supported from the outset by an Innovate UK technology grant for research conducted by SEHTA (Science, Engineering and Health Technology Alliance) prior to our starting to develop the solution.
Looking ahead, what do you think the future of digital life stories and person-centred technology in social care will look like over the next five years, and what role do you hope After Cloud will play in that evolution?
I think within five years, life story work will be treated as standard practice rather than a point of differentiation, much as care planning itself became standard decades ago. Regulation is already moving in that direction, and providers are recognising that you cannot evidence genuinely relational or person-centred care without it. Where I hope After Cloud leads is in refusing to treat this as an adults-only conversation. Children in care deserve the same continuity of identity and story as anyone in a care home, arguably more so, because their early years story is still being written and the stakes of losing it are higher. Our partnership with Coram strengthens this as we are a trusted technology provider. We also believe that Intergenerational learning and legacy beyond the care setting itself are hugely important, which is why our work extends to personal memory and digital legacy more broadly, and to preserving history in other forms entirely, from heritage assets to provenance. Our ambition is for Storyteller to be the platform that proves life story work is not a feature you add to care; it is the foundation good care is built on, for every person, at every stage of life.
Above all, we want to ensure that we continue to drive social impact and, where possible, make a difference. We see this in our support for charities like Comfort Cases, as well as other great causes and initiatives, such as Championing Social Care. The sector is supporting the sector with incredible work