Care home celebrates a year of monthly friendship events

Charlton Lodge in Wantage opens its doors on the second Wednesday of each month for a friendship café, welcoming older people from the surrounding community to join residents for conversation and activities.

Each session runs from 10.30am to 12.30pm and offers visitors the chance to take part in arts and crafts and learn new skills while enjoying refreshments.

The first anniversary of the café was marked with a special event.

Twenty-two guests attended the celebration, enjoying tea, conversation, and homemade cakes.

Carla Kell, home manager at Charlton Lodge, said: “We are dedicated to making a positive difference in our community, and we believe no one should ever feel alone.

“Creating strong support networks is vital and our friendship café is designed to do just that, offering a welcoming space where people can relax, connect, and enjoy each other’s company.

“As we celebrate the event’s one-year anniversary, we’re looking forward to reflecting on the past 12 months and sharing conversations over a cup of tea and a slice of cake.”

The friendship café is run in partnership with Dementia Oxfordshire.

Charlton Lodge is a Care UK home offering residential, dementia, and respite care.

To find out more information about Charlton Lodge, please call 01235 330 416, or email mark.young@careuk.com or visit careuk.com/charlton-lodge.