Mad Hatter’s tea party is ‘resounding success’

Eight months after our official opening the first big party has taken place for residents and family members at Deer Park Nursing Home, embracing the ever-popular Mad Hatter theme.

Activities co-ordinator, Alyce Barber, said: “This was our first big event, so we wanted it to be fun and make everyone feel like they are part of the Deer Park family.

“A Mad Hatter’s Tea Party was an obvious choice – everyone is familiar with it, and who doesn’t like tea, cakes and some silly fun?

“Of course it was essential to make sure the familiar characters were all invited, so the Mad Hatter came – aka team leader Anne Finch; as well as the White Rabbit – healthcare assistant Adam Stratton; the Queen of Hearts – deputy manager Amanda Williams; and Alice – me.

“And we were also really pleased to welcome guests whose loved ones have passed away, since we still consider them very much part of our Deer Park family, as well as several colleagues’ families and members of the community.

“Ahead of the day our ladies and gents were keen to help with party prep, so were supported to make themed decorations for the lounges and some lovely flower arrangements.

“Deer Park’s wonderful chef and kitchen team did a terrific job with bottles of ‘Drink me’ ginger ale and elderflower spritz, an amazing Cheshire Cat ‘grin’ of cheese and pineapple, checkerboard sandwiches, white rabbit carrot cake and scones and cream.

“Residents and guests had fun with a game of Mad Hatter bingo, a lucky teapot scratchcard, musical entertainment and a little bit of seated exercise.

“Everyone was very pleased to welcome back the lovely Emma Richardson who delighted us her great selection of party songs – and that prompted lots of dancing and singing along.

“My colleagues pulled together so well to ensure everything ran smoothly – such a fantastic example of great teamwork – and the smiles on our residents’ faces said it all: a resounding success of a party!”