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The show goes on at Hastings Court
Hastings Court Care Home thrills residents with socially-distanced car park concert
Residents at Hastings Court were treated to a car park performance from their favourite entertainer Ritchie Lee recently. Hastings Court were scheduled to welcome Ritchie Lee into the home but because of the ban on all but essential visitors, they set Ritchie up to perform for residents in the car park instead.
Richie, who is a local from St Leonards on Sea, drew shouts of support and toots from passing motorists as he performed favourites such as ‘Sweet Caroline’ and ‘Johnny Be Good.’
Staff joined in, dancing with him outside, while thrilled residents danced in their rooms on the home’s three floors. To make sure no one missed out, Ritchie then took his act into the home’s back garden.
A Welcome Change
Senior Registered Manager Georgina Gamble said: “The staff team have performed for residents with music and dancing in the garden but we thought they would appreciate some proper entertainment!
“Luckily, the weather was very kind to us so we could invite Ritchie here to perform safely and within current guidelines. And it meant we could support a local entertainer which was also a positive thing for us to do.”
Resident Jean Botting said: “It was wonderful to see Ritchie and hear him outside. Although he comes here regularly this felt so different, it was great. I really enjoyed it.”
The Good Times Roll
Staff have been going above and beyond to ensure residents are staying positive during this uncertain time.
They have kept friends and families of residents in touch with a weekly internal newspaper, The Hastings Court Crier. They also facilitate regular video calls through Skype and post regular updates of happenings as well as positive messages within the home on Facebook.
Residents have also been treated to a Hastings Court version of the Grand National with staff ‘riding’ hobby horses around the courtyard garden and family members were able to join in a resident’s 100th birthday party via Skype.
After the success of Ritchie’s car park performance, Hastings Court are planning more outdoors entertainment in the coming weeks.
“All of us enjoyed ourselves immensely,” said Georgina, “and for the public to react in the way they did was a real tonic for us all in these challenging times. At Hastings Court the good times always roll but this took us to another level!”
The sing-a-long event has been a great lift during this difficult time for everyone who lives and works at the home as well as for the local community.
Find out more about Hastings Court Care Home in Hastings, East Sussex.