Care home residents launch podcast to share stories and spark conversation across generations
Three lifelong friends from a West Midlands care home are proving it’s never too late to try something new – by launching their very own podcast.
Doreen Lichfield, 92, Anne Borne, 92, and Maureen Ward, 88 – all residents at Sutton Rose, part of the Macc Care Group – have created 'Do You Remember the Time?', a new monthly podcast offering nostalgic reflections and candid conversation, as they reminisce about how life has changed over the decades.
The idea originated during a reminiscence group at the home, where staff noticed the trio’s lively banter and quick wit. Inspired by their warmth and wisdom, the activities team encouraged them to take their chats to a wider audience – and the podcast was born.
Each episode sees the friends reflect on a different theme – from school days and wartime memories, to love, friendship and how society has changed. The conversations are full of humour, honesty and the kind of insight only a lifetime of experience can bring.
Doreen, who grew up in Birmingham and was twice evacuated to Staffordshire during the war, described podcasting to the BBC as “learning a new language”, but said the dynamic between the trio made it work: “We’re all very different and that’s what makes it so good. We don’t always agree, but we always listen and laugh.”
Maureen added: “We didn’t know what a podcast was – but it’s really just like having a good natter over dinner. It’s what we do every day, but now we’re recording it too.”
The aim of the podcast is to spark connection, not only among fellow residents and families, but with younger generations who may never have heard first-hand accounts of life before mobile phones, social media or even television.
With support from the team, Sutton Rose has fully embraced the project, investing in lights, microphones, and a studio-style set-up to ensure the podcast is YouTube-ready.
Bhav Amlani, Director of Macc Care Group, said: “At Macc Care, we’re passionate about supporting meaningful, person-centred activities that celebrate the lives and voices of our residents. 'Do You Remember the Time?' is the perfect example of this in action – empowering older people to be seen and heard. We’re incredibly proud of the team at Sutton Rose and can’t wait to tune in.”
The first podcast is due out in the coming weeks, and can be watched or listened to by visiting youtube.com/@macccare2022 or facebook.com/SuttonRoseCarehome.
