Dudley care home makes residents' dreams come true
Residents, Fred and Ian, at Broadway Halls often spent their afternoons reminiscing about the glory days of attending a game of their favourite football team, the Wolverhampton Wanderers, and had always wanted to go back for one more game and to see Molineux Stadium, the proud home of the Wolves. When the opportunity came along for Fred and Ian to visit the stadium on a special trip organised by Wolves Make a Wish Trust, the staff at the home made their wish a reality proving the old adage, it’s never too late.
Fred and Ian have lived at Broadway Halls for 2 years, moving in just a month apart, and are beloved by staff and residents alike. Scott Bates, Activities Co-ordinator at the home, was delighted to be a part of making their dream come true, as he knew how much it meant to them. He particularly wanted to be there to see the smile on Fred and Ian’s faces when their dream was realised.
Their first stop was the Wolves Museum, and Fred’s eyes lit up as he pointed out photos of matches from decades ago he attended while Ian stood quietly in awe, soaking in every detail. But the real surprise came when they were introduced to two Wolves legends John Richards and Steve Bull. The ex-players welcomed them warmly, and the group sat down for a good chat over hot drinks and a plate of delicious sandwiches. Fred couldn’t stop smiling, and Ian, usually a man of few words, found himself laughing and swapping stories with the legends.
The group was led out onto the wolves pitch. Standing there, in the heart of the stadium they had only ever seen from the stand, was a moment of pure magic. The ex-players signed Fred and Ian’s Wolves shirts, and the residents were given a free Wolves memorabilia gift bag which Scott said ‘was a perfect touch to a perfect day.’
In response to this wonderful surprise, Ian Humphries, said: “This is something I’ll remember forever.” Fred Tennant said, “It’s been the most memorable day” as he nodded in agreement. “A day I’ll never forget. It is such an amazing feeling to know that such a loving group of people care so much about us that they helped us to live out a dream – and we didn’t even have to ask.”
Danica Chugh, General Manager at the home, said: “We believe that every moment is worth cherishing. We want everyone we care for to know how important they are to us here at Broadway Halls. It is testament to the hard work and dedication of the team here in making our residents’ dreams come true. It was wonderful to see how happy Ian and Fred were – and the staff loved being a part of this as well.”
Broadway Halls care home is run by Barchester Healthcare, one of the UK’s largest care providers, which is committed to delivering personalised care across its care homes and hospitals. Broadway Halls provides residential care, nursing care and dementia care for 83 residents from respite care to long term stays.
